The performance was vintage Messi. From his intelligent movement and flawless finishing to his ability to dictate the tempo of the match, the 39-year-old looked as influential as ever. His three goals not only secured Argentina’s opening win of the tournament but also saw him equal German striker Miroslav Klose’s all-time FIFA World Cup scoring record of 16 goals.
It is a milestone that few believed would ever be matched. Klose’s record has stood since the 2014 FIFA World Cup, when the German forward surpassed Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazário. Now, more than a decade later, Messi has drawn level and is just one goal away from becoming the outright leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history.
For Argentina, the result could not have been a better start. The reigning world champions arrived at the tournament carrying high expectations, and Messi delivered exactly what the fans hoped for. His leadership and experience continue to inspire a talented squad aiming to defend the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
The hat-trick has also reignited the never-ending debate over the greatest footballer of all time. Messi’s World Cup triumph in 2022 already strengthened his case, and every record he breaks adds another layer to his extraordinary legacy. Whether judged by trophies, goals, assists or longevity, the Argentine continues to achieve milestones that once seemed impossible.
Yet while Messi is celebrating another historic night, attention now shifts to his long-time rival, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Portugal begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign later tonight against DR Congo, with Ronaldo preparing to make history of his own. The Portuguese superstar is set to become one of the very few players to appear in six FIFA World Cups, a remarkable achievement that reflects nearly two decades at the highest level of international football.
Although Ronaldo enters the tournament at 41 years old, expectations remain high. Portugal boast one of the strongest squads in the competition, and fans will be hoping their captain can produce another memorable World Cup performance. With Messi having already stolen the headlines, the spotlight now falls firmly on Ronaldo to respond on football’s biggest stage.
The two icons have defined an era unlike any other. For almost 20 years they have broken records, won countless individual honours and inspired millions of supporters around the globe. As the FIFA World Cup 2026 unfolds, football fans have the rare opportunity to witness both legends competing on the world’s biggest stage once again.
Messi has already made history in spectacular fashion. Now, all eyes turn to Ronaldo as he begins what could be the final World Cup chapter of one of football’s greatest rivalries.