Lionel Messi led the Argentina team to start its path to the 2026 World Cup on the right foot. Messi achieved a hat trick in the Albiceleste's 3-0 victory over Algeria. The Inter Miami player shed some tears after his first goal. Messi revealed the reasons.

This is the sixth World Cup in which Lionel Messi participates. At 38 years old, the former FC Barcelona player continues to be decisive. In the 17th minute, Messi would score his first goal of the match.

After his score, the Inter Miami footballer was visibly affected and even shed some tears. After the game, Messi clarified that it was part of a relief because he was going through complex moments before the World Cup.

"I cried for an issue totally unrelated to sports. I spent some difficult, complicated days. I thank all my teammates because they were as always, by my side, supporting me and giving me a lot of strength to be well," explained the Argentine in the mixed zone.

Lionel Messi and his record in World Cups

With the hat-trick against Algeria, Lionel Messi continues to achieve success in his career. The 38-year-old Argentine striker equaled Mirosław Józef Klose's record as the top scorer in World Cup history. Both have 16 scores.

Lionel Messi still has several games ahead of him. The Albiceleste is expected to play at least three more games. This is a good opportunity for Messi to increase his record and stand alone at the top. But Kylian Mbappé is on the lookout for this mark with 15 goals.

This is how the 2026 World Cup is going