With a dazzling hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 World Cup win over Algeria on Tuesday, the 38-year-old Lionel Messi vindicated coach Lionel Scaloni's assertion on the eve of the match that he remains fundamental to the reigning champions.
Exactly 20 years after netting his first World Cup goal, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner again shaped the narrative, moving level with Miroslav Klose's 16 goals for a share of the all-time men's scoring record at the tournament.
Also Read: Lionel Messi lights up the stage with hat-trick in opener vs Algeria, equals Klose’s all-time record
On a night that also marked a record sixth World Cup appearance and his 200th international match, Messi drew roars from the crowd from early on, robbing Algeria of possession high up the pitch in the second minute.
