Magic Messi rewrites history again on world soccer’s biggest stage with a hat trick
Lionel Messi continues to dominate the World Cup, rewriting history with a hat trick as other superstars like Bellingham, Mbappe, and Haaland also shine.
Video and images are AI-generated illustrations, not real footage.
Lionel Messi recently rewrote football history on June 17, 2026, by scoring his first-ever World Cup hat trick during Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This remarkable achievement elevated his total World Cup goals to 16, drawing him level with Germany's Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading goal scorer in the tournament's history.
The match saw Messi, who will turn 39 next week, make a record sixth appearance in the World Cup, further cementing his legendary status. His hat trick also marked him as the oldest player to achieve such a feat in the tournament.
What each outlet emphasizes
- CNN: Emphasizes Messi's record-breaking performance and hat trick, and the Cape Verde goalkeeper's mother being able to watch.
- BBC: Focuses on Ronaldo's struggles compared to other superstars, Cape Verde goalkeeper's reunion, and changes in footballers' bodies.
- AJ: Highlights Messi breaking records, Mbappe's and Haaland's performances, Ghana's win, and other match results.
- The Guardian: Features Bellingham's performance for England, Ghana's victory, and general tournament coverage including top scorers and player guides.
- AP: Reports on Messi tying the men's World Cup goals record with a hat trick and concerns over FIFA hydration breaks.
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