Argentina Player Ratings: Messi's Hat Trick Ties World Cup Goals Record in 3-0 Win Over Algeria

Lionel Messi scored a hat trick in Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria, leveling Miroslav Klose's record for the most goals scored in World Cup history during the opening match of their title defense.

In Kansas City, Missouri, Argentina launched its World Cup title defense with a shaky start, but Lionel Messi quickly showcased his extraordinary talent. The 38-year-old forward netted three goals in a 3-0 triumph against Algeria, captivating a crowd of 69,045 at Kansas City Stadium. This hat trick elevated Messi to a total of 16 career goals in World Cup play, equaling Miroslav Klose's record, achieved in fewer matches.

The match began with tension for Argentina as they struggled to find their rhythm. Although Messi had previously scored against Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, an early opportunity was nullified by an offside call against Lautaro Martinez in the fifth minute. Shortly after, Algeria threatened to take the lead with Farès Chaïbi scoring, but VAR intervened, confirming that Chaïbi was offside as well.

Both teams continued to search for openings until Argentina's breakthrough came. Rodrigo De Paul, a teammate of Messi at Inter Miami, delivered a precise pass that found Messi, who skillfully maneuvered around defenders and struck the ball into the top-right corner, putting Argentina ahead 1-0. This goal added to Messi's impressive list of accomplishments.

"It's hard to explain. We’re amazed with him still, though we get to see him every day," stated Argentina's manager, Lionel Scaloni.

Algeria's manager, Vladimir Petković, acknowledged Messi's talent despite emphasizing that his team performed better than the final score suggested. He remarked, "Class is permanent. We’re not talking about any old footballer. He’s got eight Ballon D'Ors. Unfortunately, we also afforded him an opportunity with the first and second goals. He’s got the privilege that the entire Argentina team works for him. Argentina had 10 shots, seven of which came from Messi."

This match marked Messi's fifth World Cup in which he scored a goal, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of his debut World Cup goal. Additionally, he and De Paul became the fifth pair of MLS players to assist each other in a World Cup match, a distinction previously held by USMNT players. This goal also represented the 911th of Messi's career across club and international competitions.

"He’s been the best for 20 years. You don’t have to be an Argentine fan to admire what he’s done at 38 years old," Scaloni commented.

Messi's scoring spree continued in the second half. After Alexis Mac Allister's long-range shot was parried by Zidane, Messi capitalized on the rebound. He completed his hat trick with a well-placed shot following a timely assist from Nicolas Gonzalez.

While Algeria maintained a comparable level of possession, their offensive efforts fell short, registering seven shots without any on target.

A breakdown of Argentina's player performances from the match at Kansas City Stadium is as follows:

Emiliano Martinez (7/10): Although not heavily tested, he excelled in distribution and helped calm Argentina's nerves early in the game.

Facundo Medina (7/10): Effectively contained Algeria's wingers and contributed defensively, but did not venture much into attack.

Cristian Romero (7/10): Played a vital role in defense, contributing to Algeria's lack of shots on target.

Lisandro Martinez (8/10): Strong defensively, he made several clearances and tackles.

Gonzalo Montiel (7/10): Had a solid first half with multiple defensive contributions but was substituted at halftime as part of a strategy.

Rodrigo De Paul (8/10): Showcased his defensive prowess and provided a key assist to Messi.

Enzo Fernandez (7/10): Maintained flow in Argentina's passing game.

Alexis Mac Allister (7/10): His audacious strike led to Messi's second goal, contributing effectively throughout the match.

Thiago Almada (6/10): Provided width but had a limited impact.

Lionel Messi (10/10): Delivered a historic performance that silenced any doubts about his status as one of the greatest players ever. He matched Klose's World Cup scoring record and is now one goal away from becoming the tournament's all-time leading scorer and one assist shy of breaking Diego Maradona's assist record.

Lautaro Martínez (5/10): Struggled to make an impact, appearing indecisive during his time on the pitch.

Julian Alvarez (5/10): Still recovering from an injury, he was largely ineffective.

Nicolas González (7/10): Made an immediate impact after coming on, assisting on Messi's final goal.

Nicolas Otamendi (6/10): Provided defensive cover after his substitution.

Nico Paz (6/10): Contributed positively after being brought on.

Nahuel Molina (6/10): Came on as a substitute, offering a stable presence.

Lionel Scaloni (8/10): While Messi dominated the night, Scaloni made effective substitutions and his team displayed composure after an initially tense start, reinforcing Argentina's status as a favorite in the competition.