Messi At 200: Argentina Legend Celebrates Historic Outing With A Sublime Hat-Trick Against Algeria

ARG Vs ALG Match Photos, FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina began their title defence with a sensational 3-0 victory over Algeria at the Kansas City Stadium on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. The match, of course, became a Lionel Messi show. Celebrating his landmark 200th international cap, the soon-to-be-39 maestro from Rosario scored a spectacular hat-trick -- his first-ever at a World Cup -- a beautiful long-ranger, followed by two clinical finishes. This historic feat elevated him to 16 World Cup goals, equalling German legend Miroslav Klose as the joint highest goal scorer in tournament history. The Inter Miami and former Barcelona superstar also became the first male player to feature in six World Cups. With this win, La Albiceleste took early control of Group J, also featuring Austria and debutants Jordan. Up next, Lionel Scaloni's team will travel to Dallas to face Austria, while Algeria move to Santa Clara for a meeting with Jordan on June 22. Here are the best pics from the match.

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