Lionel Messi became the World Cup’s joint-top all-time scorer with a hat-trick as reigning champions Argentina began their defence with a statement victory over Algeria.
The Inter Miami forward, who was making his 200th appearance for his country, opened the scoring in the 16th minute, doubled the lead in the hour mark before completing his treble on 76 minutes.
His efforts created a piece of history, as the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner took his World Cup finals goal tally to 16.
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Messi has now moved level with Germany’s Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading scorer in the competition’s history.
The three-time world champions were made to work for victory at the Kansas City Stadium as they aim to become only the third nation to successfully defend the World Cup.
It was the first time Argentina had won their opening match at a World Cup as defending champions, having suffered defeats in 1982 and 1990.
(Ripples)