The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Lionel Messi became the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer after netting three goals as defending champions Argentina opened their campaign with a victory over Algeria.
Playing his 200th international match, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner made history by taking his World Cup finals tally to 16 goals, equalling Germany’s Miroslav Klose at the top of the tournament’s all-time scoring charts.
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The three-time world champions were made to work hard for the win at Kansas City Stadium as they aim to become only the third nation to successfully defend the World Cup title.
It was also the first time Argentina have won their opening match as reigning champions, having previously lost their first games in 1982 and 1990.
Messi set the tone with a brilliant opening goal in the 17th minute, finishing off a move involving Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul before rounding goalkeeper Luca Zidane in his 27th World Cup appearance.
He had earlier seen a goal attempt ruled out, while Algeria also threatened soon after, with both sides enjoying a lively start to the match.
In a historic appearance—becoming the first player to feature in six World Cups—Messi also escaped a potential penalty incident after a challenge on Aissa Mandi midway through the first half.
Argentina came close to a second goal late in the match, before Messi sealed his hat-trick in the 76th minute with a powerful strike from outside the box after being set up by Nicolas Gonzalez.
With the win, Argentina begin Group J on a strong note and will next face Austria and Jordan.
