Lionel Messi has tied the all-time men's World Cup goals record. The Argentine captain scored a hat trick in a decisive 3-0 victory over Algeria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The three goals bring his career tournament total to 16, equaling the long-standing record held by Germany's Miroslav Klose. Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo de Paul provided the assist on one of the goals, underscoring their critical on-field chemistry.
This milestone performance immediately positions Messi as a frontrunner for the tournament's Golden Boot award. All eyes now turn to Argentina's next match, where Messi could stand alone as the greatest scorer in World Cup history.