Tahiti Overview

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Argentina started their World Cup title defence in a nervy fashion, but then Lionel Messi reminded all 69,045 at Kansas City Stadium that he, in fact, still Lionel Messi. The 38-year-old announced his arrival at the 2026 World Cup with a stunning rocket and then proceeded to add two more goals to give Argentina a 3-0 win over Algeria. It also put him on the record books. Messi is now tied on all-time World Cup goals with Miroslav Klose with 16 goals, though the German remains in the lead due to less matches played.

Lionel Messi possesses the magic to lead Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup title following their 2022 triumph in Qatar. Former team-mate Pablo Zabaleta believes the veteran forward is perfectly supported by his national and Inter Miami colleagues, allowing him to save his energy for crucial moments. Zabaleta says the current tactical setup is ideal for the GOAT.