WorldNorth AmericaFIFA World CupDave SkrettaJun 17, 2026 – 3.13pmKansas City | Lionel Messi used the front of his white-and-blue, sweat-soaked jersey to wipe the tears from his eyes, a flood of emotions cracking his usually calm, confident demeanour after he gave Argentina an early lead in its World Cup opener against Algeria.Then he scored again. And again.APSubscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? Latest In North AmericaFetching latest articlesMost Viewed In World
‘Madman’ Messi scores historic World Cup hat trick at 38
The Argentinian star has now scored 16 goals in his World Cup career - and it seems likely he will break the record in coming weeks.










