Lionel Messi scored three goals for Argentina in a 3-0 win over Algeria on June 16, 2026, at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, to equal Miroslav Klose's World Cup goalscoring record of 16 goals [1, 2, 3, 4]. The hat-trick was Messi's first in a World Cup and came in his sixth tournament at age 38, setting a new record for World Cup appearances [5, 2, 3]. He scored in the 17th minute with a long-range shot, around the 60th minute on a close-range rebound, and in the 76th minute with an unstoppable finish [3, 4].
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said, "Not only Argentines, we believe everyone wants to see him on the pitch, wants to see him play" [5]. Defender Nicolas Otamendi called Messi "a competitive animal" who enjoys training and preparation [5]. Messi described equalling the record as "a really beautiful moment," adding, "To enjoy this with my family, with my teammates, the ones who are always there, is a really beautiful moment. I’m happy" [2]. Scaloni added that for 20 years Messi has inspired everyone watching him play [2].
Argentina will face Austria in their next Group J match on June 22, 2026 [2].
On June 17, England defeated Croatia 4-2 in their Group L opener in Arlington, Texas [6]. England captain Harry Kane scored twice, bringing his total to 10 World Cup goals and equalling Gary Lineker's England record [6, 7, 8]. Kane, 32, has made 115 international appearances [8, 9]. Kane praised the emotional connection with fans, saying after the game, "That was one of my favourite ever moments in an England shirt and especially at a major tournament" [10]. Following the win, he and teammates celebrated with fans singing Oasis' "Wonderwall" [10, 9].
Gary Lineker called Kane "the greatest English striker we've ever had. I genuinely think that now" [8]. England's other goals came from Jude Bellingham and substitute Marcus Rashford [6]. Despite conceding twice, England’s defense held firm to secure victory [7].
England is scheduled to play Ghana next on June 23, 2026 [8, 10].
