Lionel Messi scored the first hat trick of the World Cup in 2026 when his team trounced Algeria 3-0.
Messi who had an injury scare in the last game for his Club Los Angeles scored in the 17th and 60th minutes through a penalty before sealing the milestone in the 76th minute.
The superstar made his 200th appearance for the La Seleccion (simply meaning the selection) as they are known by their nickname.
He edged closer to 16 goals tally with Germany’s Miroslav Klose.
It will be the first time Argentina will win the world cup as defending champions having lost in 1982 and in 1990.
They have won the World Cup three times in 1978,1986 and 2022.
Argentina’s next matches will be against Austria and Jordan.
Edited by John Majau
