The 2026 World Cup is only days old, but the scoring has already reached spectacular heights. Argentina’s Lionel Messi put on a dazzling display, finding the net three times as his team opened defense of its 2022 championship title against Algeria in Kansas City, Missouri.
On that same remarkable day, France’s Kylian Mbappé added to the offensive fireworks by scoring twice in his squad’s contest. The back-to-back performances from two of the sport’s biggest names signaled that the world’s premier goal scorers arrived at this tournament ready to compete at the highest level.
Messi’s hat trick included what was recorded as Argentina’s second and third goals in the match, helping propel his squad forward as they look to repeat as world champions. The early days of the tournament have given soccer fans around the globe plenty to talk about as the competition continues to heat up.
