NEW DELHI: Superstar Lionel Messi’s dazzling hat-trick helped Argentina register a convincing 3-0 win over Algeria in their Group J clash of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
With the feat, he equalled Germany icon Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 career goals in the tournament.
A stunning 30-yard goal from the Argentina captain gave the South American side a 1-0 lead. He doubled the lead with his right foot from a rebound in the 60th minute.
Argentina sealed three crucial points in the 76th minute following Messi’s third and final goal. It was Messi’s first World Cup hat-trick.
Earlier, French superstar Kylian Mbappe scored twice as France defeated Senegal 3-1 in their Group I clash.
The first half was a complete disappointment for both sides as they failed to produce a single goal.
Mbappe opened the scoring in the 66th minute with a fine goal, and Bradley Barcola doubled the lead in the 82nd minute.
Ibrahim Mbaye pulled one back for Senegal in the 95th minute with a stunning strike, but a spectacular goal from Mbappe sealed the victory for France.
In another Group I match, Norway thrashed Iraq 4-1, thanks to a brace from Erling Haaland. Leo Ostigard scored Norway’s third goal, while veteran Iraqi forward Aymen Hussein pulled one back for Iraq.
An own goal by Hussein gave Norway a comfortable victory and helped them move to the top of the Group I standings.
Other result: Group J: Austria 3, Jordan 1
