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Sports
Messi's Hat-trick Powers Argentina Win, Debate Over Challenge
✍️ Zee News
🗓 19 Jun 2026, 11:02 AM
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Lionel Messi scored a historic hat-trick to lead Argentina to a 3-0 victory in their FIFA World Cup title defence opener, but a challenge on an opponent drew controversy.
Lionel Messi delivered a stellar performance, scoring a remarkable hat-trick to secure a dominant 3-0 win for Argentina in their FIFA World Cup title defence opener. The star forward's treble not only set a commanding tone for the tournament but also saw him draw level with Miroslav Klose's all-time scoring record.
Despite his offensive brilliance, Messi also became a focal point of discussion due to an incident during the match. The Argentine captain engaged in a challenge with Algeria defender Aissa Mandi that some observers felt warranted a stronger sanction, though he ultimately avoided punishment.
The victory marks a strong start for Argentina as they aim to retain their World Cup title, with Messi's record-equalling feat adding another significant achievement to his illustrious career.
Despite his offensive brilliance, Messi also became a focal point of discussion due to an incident during the match. The Argentine captain engaged in a challenge with Algeria defender Aissa Mandi that some observers felt warranted a stronger sanction, though he ultimately avoided punishment.
The victory marks a strong start for Argentina as they aim to retain their World Cup title, with Messi's record-equalling feat adding another significant achievement to his illustrious career.