Lionel Messi equals World Cup top goalscorer record after stunning Argentina hat-trick

Lionel Messi equalled the all-time World Cup top goalscorer record after a hat-trick for Argentina against Algeria in Kansas City. The 37-year-old is now on 16 career World Cup goals after producing a sensational display for the world champions to inspire his side to a 3-0 lead at Arrowhead. It was Messi’s first-ever hat-trick in the World Cup and confirmed his fifth tournament with a goal, joining Cristiano Ronaldo as the only players to ever achieve that. Messi had broken the deadlock with a powerful strike from range with Luca Zidane’s fingertips unable to stop the shot. A second came after an instinctive rebound after Alexis Mac Allister’s shot was spilled by Zidane. While the third was a trademark Messi goal after Nico Gonzalez square to the Inter Miami star on the edge of the area. One touch put the ball on the outside of his left foot and a sweeping finish guided the ball powerfully into the bottom left corner from outside of the penalty area to put the game beyond the Algerians. Messi was then withdraw in the 79th minute to a standing ovation after delivering the perfect start for Lionel Scaloni’s side. More to follow...