Lionel Messi delivered a stunning hat-trick as Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 38-year-old star, playing in what could be his final World Cup, broke down in tears after scoring his first goal.
Messi's Emotional Reaction
Messi explained post-match that his tears were not related to football. He said: "I cried after the first goal, yes... but it was something completely unrelated to football. I went through some difficult days, but I'm grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength."
The hat-trick moved Messi level with Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals, the all-time record. His first goal came from close range after Alexis Mac Allister's shot was spilled, the second a curling effort from distance, and the third a sensational strike from outside the box.
Other World Cup Results
Tuesday also saw France beat Senegal 3-1, Norway cruise past Iraq 4-1, and Austria dispatch Jordan 3-1. Kylian Mbappe scored a brace for France, while Erling Haaland netted twice for Norway.
England's Campaign
All eyes now turn to England, who begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia on Wednesday at 9pm BST. Thomas Tuchel's side face a tough opener in Dallas.
Former England striker Alan Shearer predicted a 2-1 win for the Three Lions, with Harry Kane and Anthony Gordon scoring. He said: "It is really important England get off to a good start. To get off to a good start as a team would set the tone for the rest of the tournament."
Injury Concerns
Bukayo Saka is nursing an Achilles injury sustained in March, but has insisted he is ready to play. Alan Shearer said: "If it is the case that Saka is out of the first game then it is a big blow, but if it's going to happen, then you're better off it happening now."
Scotland Tribute
Scotland fan Donny Strathie, 76, from Grangemouth, died suddenly in Boston on Sunday. The Tartan Army are planning a tribute ahead of their next World Cup fixture against Morocco.
Controversy and Other News
There was controversy as Messi avoided a red card for a high challenge on Aissa Mandi. Fans on social media accused FIFA of protecting the star, with one saying: "It's so obvious that FIFA is going to protect Messi again this World Cup."
Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly criticised visa issues affecting African fans, saying: "I don't understand why people from Africa cannot have their people."
England have been warned that fans singing anti-Sir Keir Starmer chants could be ejected from matches. FIFA has also banned England flags and St George's crosses as they fall foul of regulations.
Former England midfielder Scott Parker praised Jude Bellingham, saying: "He is a warrior. Talent does not shine without hard work and Bellingham works hard."
Harry Maguire suggested that Trent Alexander-Arnold was not called up as a replacement for the injured Tino Livramento because it would cause too much media attention. Instead, Chelsea's Trevoh Chalobah was selected.
BBC Sport made an embarrassing mistake during France's match against Senegal, using photos of Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konate to represent William Saliba and Jules Kounde.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, working as a pundit for Fox, called his colleague Alexi Lalas "ignorant" after Lalas described France's play as arrogant. Ibrahimovic said: "It's not arrogance, it's confidence."
