Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick last night in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria, making him the first player ever to be active in six different men’s World Cups. At 38 years old, he is now also the oldest player to score three goals in a single World Cup match.
Messi cut through the centre of the Algerian defence for his first goal, capitalised on a rebound for his second, and wrapped up the evening with a beautifully placed left-footed strike for the third. It was his eleventh hat-trick in international football, but his very first at a World Cup.
With his 14th, 15th and 16th World Cup goals, he equalled the all-time record of German Miroslav Klose as the top scorer in men’s tournament history.
Gratitude
After the match, Messi spoke from a place of deep gratitude. “God has given me too much,” he said. “I cannot ask for anything more. Everything now is just about enjoyment. I am glad to be regarded as one of the best in football history — but above all I am grateful to be counted among so many great players.”
The star also reflected on his career as a gift he never takes for granted. “I am so glad I experienced everything that came my way,” said Messi. “What I am living now feels like a little extra — a bonus on top of everything.”
Coach Lionel Scaloni could barely contain his admiration: “I don’t know what to say about Leo. What can I say? He is incredible.”
