Lionel Messi produced another unforgettable World Cup moment by scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria, but it was his emotional reaction after the opening goal that captured almost as much attention as his record-breaking display.
The Argentina captain later revealed that the tears seen during the celebration were linked to personal difficulties he had experienced in recent days rather than anything connected to football.
Messi opens up on emotional celebration
Messi curled home a stunning opener in the 18th minute before being surrounded by teammates. As celebrations continued, television cameras caught the 38-year-old wiping tears from his face.
After the match, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner explained the emotional moment.
“Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football,” Messi said.
“I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it.”
Historic night for Argentina captain
The match proved historic in several ways for Messi.
His hat-trick was the first World Cup hat-trick of his illustrious career and took his tally in the competition to 16 goals, drawing level with Miroslav Klose as the tournament’s all-time leading scorer.
Messi also became the first footballer in history to appear at six FIFA World Cups, exactly 20 years after making his tournament debut for Argentina.
The performance helped Argentina begin their title defence with a victory, something the nation had never previously achieved as reigning world champions.
‘The cherry on top’ of an extraordinary career
Questions had surrounded Messi’s fitness before the tournament after he was forced off with muscle fatigue during his final MLS appearance for Inter Miami.
However, any concerns were quickly dismissed as he delivered a masterclass against Algeria.
“It makes me very happy to have lived through everything that came my way,” Messi said.
“What I’m living through now is the cherry on top. I’m very happy and grateful for this wonderful group. I enjoy it so much.”
Messi received a standing ovation when he was substituted after 80 minutes, with Argentina supporters chanting his name throughout the stadium.
Argentina continue to build around Messi
Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister praised his captain after the victory and stressed the importance of building the team around him.
“There are no words to describe him. If anyone thought this team was better without Leo, today it was proven that the opposite is true,” Mac Allister said.
“He is our most important player. We need to build a team around him, and we are doing it.”
Argentina will now turn their attention to their second Group J fixture against Austria as they continue their pursuit of back-to-back World Cup titles, with Messi once again expected to be at the heart of their campaign.
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