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Messi's World Cup Masterclass: Age is Just a Number
17 Jun
Summary
- Lionel Messi, at 38, scored a hat-trick in Argentina's dominant World Cup win.
- He is now level with Miroslav Klose as the all-time top scorer in men's World Cups.
- Despite doubts, Messi displayed exceptional fitness and urgency throughout the match.
Lionel Messi, at the age of 38, delivered a stunning performance in his sixth World Cup, netting a hat-trick in Argentina's decisive 3-0 victory over Algeria. This achievement places him alongside Germany's Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading scorer in men's World Cup history, with 16 goals.
Despite preceding questions about his fitness and starting role, Messi's display was one of urgency and decisiveness. He was active in both defensive and attacking phases, orchestrating plays and finishing clinically. Luca Zidane, Algeria's goalkeeper, faced a tough night, including a controversial moment where Messi's challenge on Aissa Mandi was not deemed a red card offense.
Argentina's opening performance as defending champions was strong, avoiding the fate of previous titleholders who often struggled in their first match. The team's comfortable win over Algeria is a significant step toward the knockout stages. Their next fixture is against Austria on Monday, June 22, with further knockout stage matches scheduled for early July in various US cities.
