Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick against Algeria on June 10, 2026, to tie the record for most goals in FIFA World Cup history [1].
The achievement cements Messi's legacy as a premier figure in international football by placing him at the top of the tournament's all-time scoring list [2].
Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 [3] during the Group J opening match [4]. The game took place in Kansas City, U.S. [5]. Messi scored three goals in the victory [1], bringing his total World Cup goal tally to 16 [6].
This total places the Argentina captain in a tie with Miroslav Klose for the title of the tournament's most prolific scorer [1], [7]. While some reports suggest he has reached the mark, others indicate he has surpassed it [1], [7].
The performance occurred during the early stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The victory provides Argentina with a strong start in Group J as they advance through the competition [4], [5].
“Messi scored a hat-trick against Algeria on June 10, 2026, to tie the record for most goals in FIFA World Cup history”
By reaching 16 goals, Messi has entered the most exclusive scoring tier in football history. Tying Miroslav Klose's long-standing record not only elevates Messi's statistical standing but also provides Argentina with significant psychological momentum heading into the knockout stages of the 2026 tournament.
