FIFA WC: Argentina begin title defence with 3-0 win as Messi scores a hat-trick

Lionel Messi delivered a vintage performance, scoring a World Cup hat-trick as defending champions Argentina began their title defence with a dominant 3-0 win over Algeria. The star forward’s treble, his first in the tournament, saw him draw level with Miroslav Klose on the all-time scoring charts. Messi’s brilliance, despite pre-tournament injury concerns, showcased Argentina’s formidable strength.