FIFA World Cup news: Lionel Messi historic hat-trick powers Argentina past Algeria
Lionel Messi delivered another memorable FIFA World Cup performance as Argentina opened their campaign with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Algeria on Wednesday.
The Argentina captain scored all three goals to secure the win and draw level in the all-time World Cup scoring charts, adding yet another remarkable achievement to his glittering international career.
Messi's hat-trick ensured the reigning world champions began their latest title defence in ideal fashion and reinforced their status as one of the tournament favourites.
Messi reaches another milestone
At an age when many players have long since stepped away from international football, Messi once again proved decisive on the biggest stage.
The forward produced a clinical display in front of goal, netting all three of Argentina's goals and moving level with the leading scorers in World Cup history.
Despite the latest milestone, Messi focused on the enjoyment he continues to take from representing his country.
"It makes me very happy to have lived through everything that came my way," Messi said.
"What I'm living through now is the cherry on top."
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner also paid tribute to his team-mates after another dominant performance from Argentina.
"I'm very happy and grateful for this wonderful group.
"I enjoy it so much."
Argentina begin strongly
While Messi grabbed the headlines, Argentina produced an assured all-round display.
The South Americans controlled possession for large periods and limited Algeria's opportunities, allowing their captain to provide the decisive moments in attack.
The result hands Argentina an important three points and places them in a strong position heading into the remainder of the group stage.
Messi's quality ultimately proved the difference, but the overall team performance will also please head coach Lionel Scaloni.
Scaloni hails Argentina captain
Following the match, Scaloni admitted he was running out of ways to describe the influence Messi continues to have on the national side.
"I don't have the words to describe Messi," Scaloni said.
"For 20 years, he's had us used to seeing things like this, and he inspires everyone who watches him play."
The Argentina coach also welcomed the opportunity to rotate players during the victory.
"The team is happy; we gave playing time to a lot of players."
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Focus turns to next challenge
Despite the convincing nature of the result, Scaloni insisted Argentina will remain focused on the next task rather than looking too far ahead.
"We're going to take it one game at a time," he said.
"Hopefully we can win the next one so everyone can be in the third group-stage match."
For Messi, however, it was another night that added to an already extraordinary legacy.
A World Cup hat-trick, another record-equalling achievement and a winning start for Argentina ensured the tournament could hardly have begun in better fashion for one of football's greatest players.
"When I'm in good shape, I give it my all," Messi said.
On the evidence of Wednesday's performance, Argentina's captain still has plenty left to give.
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