https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5614184/2024/07/06/lionel-messi-lamine-yamal-photo-barcelona/
Lionel Messi has made headlines once more by scoring multiple times in Argentina’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Algeria. Notably, this performance included a hat trick, elevating Messi to tie Miroslav Klose’s men’s World Cup record of 16 goals. Messi’s achievement also marked him as the first player to appear in six men’s World Cups and the oldest to net a hat trick in a World Cup match. This development has captured the attention of prediction markets, particularly for the World Cup Golden Boot predictions, where Messi’s chances are now significantly strengthened.
Key Takeaways
Messi’s hat trick in the World Cup opener suggests a boost in his prospects for the Golden Boot, with market pricing reflecting increased expectations for his scoring potential.
The development does not impact markets related to missed penalties or Cape Verde’s chances of being the top scoring nation.
