Superstar Lionel Messi's stunning hat-trick for Argentina
Superstar Lionel Messi has equalled the record for goals at the World Cup after a stunning hat-trick for Argentina overnight.
They beat Algeria 3-0 in Kansas which puts Messi on 16 goals and level with Germany's Miroslav Klose. He also became the first player in history to feature at six World Cups - beating Cristiano Ronaldo by a day.
The 38-year-old kicked off his memorable night in the 17th minute with a powerful strike from distance. It seemed as if Algeria's defenders were completely mesmerised by the Inter Miami superstar as they refused to close him down.
Their reluctance proved costly as Messi let rip from just outside the box with a left-footed strike.
Messi bagged his second of the evening on the hour mark after Algeria keeper, Luca Zidane, spilled Alexis Mac Allister's long-range strike. He failed to hold on to the ball as his rebound fell right in the path of Messi, who was quickest to react.
Messi then completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute when, for the second time of the evening, he scored from outside the box.
After the celebrations Messi was spotted fighting back the tears.
He explained it was nothing to do with anything on the field, thanking his compatriots for their support.
“My tears after the first goal? I’ve had some tough days" he said.
"I’m very happy and grateful for this wonderful group. I enjoy it so much.
"it wasn’t related to football, and those feelings were because of that. I thank my teammates, the technical staff, and the delegation for helping me.”
