Defending champions Argentina launched their FIFA World Cup title defence with a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria on Tuesday, inspired by a historic hat-trick from captain Lionel Messi.
The Argentine superstar delivered another unforgettable performance on football’s biggest stage, scoring all three goals as La Albiceleste opened their Group J campaign with maximum points and a statement win.
Messi broke the deadlock in the 17th minute with a superb strike from the edge of the penalty area, giving Argentina the lead after a lively start.
The goal set the tone for a dominant display from the South American giants, who controlled possession and continually threatened the Algerian defence.
The 39-year-old forward doubled Argentina’s advantage just after the hour mark, arriving at the right place to tap home from close range and put his side firmly in control.
He then completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute, calmly placing a precise finish into the corner of the net to seal an emphatic victory.
The remarkable performance saw Messi write another chapter in World Cup history. His three goals took his tournament tally to 16, drawing level with former Germany striker Miroslav Klose as the joint-leading scorer in men’s FIFA World Cup history.
The milestone came on another landmark occasion for the Argentine captain. Making his 200th international appearance, Messi also became the first footballer ever to play in six FIFA World Cups, further cementing his legacy as one of the game’s greatest players.
Argentina’s convincing win gives them an ideal start as they seek to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title.
For Algeria, the defeat leaves them with work to do in their remaining group-stage fixtures.
With Messi in sensational form and history continuing to follow him wherever he plays, Argentina’s quest for back-to-back World Cup crowns could hardly have begun in more spectacular fashion.
