Lionel Messi (38) has made World Cup history: The soccer star helped Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Algeria with a hat trick. With this, the 38-year-old tied the record for the most goals at World Cups held by Germany's former national player Miroslav Klose (48). Both now stand at 16 goals.
More Records for Argentina's Superstar
According to media reports, it was Lionel Messi's eleventh hat trick in his international career, but his first at a World Cup. Furthermore, the Argentine is now the oldest player to have scored three goals in a single match at a World Cup. He was substituted against Algeria near the end of the second half to thunderous applause in the stadium in Kansas City.
After the match, Lionel Messi stated according to reports that it was an honor to stand alongside Miroslav Klose and Brazilian Ronaldo (49) on this list. Ultimately, however, these are just statistics and nothing more. When Messi took to the field for the defending champion Argentina's first group match, he celebrated his 200th appearance for the Argentine national team. He also became the first player to have played at six World Cups.
How Things Continue for Lionel Messi in the Tournament
Although Lionel Messi has only a one-day lead: Cristiano Ronaldo (41) is also expected to reach the mark of six World Cups today, Wednesday, in Portugal's opening match against Congo. With Argentina's triumph, Messi now shares the top spot on another all-time leaderboard with Miroslav Klose with 17 World Cup victories. However, more World Cup wins could soon be added for Messi: Argentina faces Austria on June 22 in Dallas before concluding the group stage against Jordan.
