Lionel Messi has just added another incredible milestone to his already legendary career by becoming the first player ever to participate in six FIFA World Cups. The captain of Argentina celebrated this historic moment with a stunning hat-trick in a 3-0 win against Algeria, kicking off their title defense in spectacular fashion. In his 200th international match, Messi delivered a performance filled with records, goals, and unforgettable moments. At 38 years old, he netted three goals, soaring to the top of the World Cup scoring charts and once again showcasing his enduring impact on football’s grandest stage.
This memorable night was even more special as it marked exactly 20 years since Messi made his World Cup debut for Argentina back in 2006. After having an early goal ruled out, he got things rolling in the 17th minute with a beautiful curling shot. He then added another with a follow-up before sealing his first World Cup hat-trick with a precise low shot from outside the box. The crowd erupted in applause as he made his way off the field late in the game, a fitting tribute to his remarkable achievement.
Highest Goal Scorers in FIFA World Cup
With Messi scoring three goals in the match, he has now scored a total of 16 goals in the FIFA World Cup, which is the same number as Miroslav Klose from Germany and also the most by any player in the World Cup. However, Klose accomplished it in 24 games while Messi did so in 27 games.
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Tied for fourth place are the legendary Gerd Muller from Germany and France’s own Kylian Mbappe, both boasting 14 goals. Mbappe added to his tally earlier that day with a stunning brace for France. Just Fontaine from France is right behind them with 13 goals, while the Brazilian icon Pele has netted 12 across four World Cups.
Sandor Kocsis from Hungary and Jurgen Klinsmann of Germany followed up with 11 goals each. The significance of this recent achievement by Messi is further emphasized by the fact that Messi has been a key part of World Cup goal-scoring records for two decades beginning from 2006 to the current World Cup of 2026. With upcoming group stage games against Austria and Jordan, it is possible for Messi to surpass Klose and set a new World Cup goal-scoring record for himself.
Besides becoming the oldest scorer to score three goals in one game at the World Cup level, Messi became the first footballer to feature in six consecutive World Cups. With Argentina winning its first game in style under Messi’s captaincy, all eyes are still on their star player.
