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Lionel Messi explains emotional reaction after scoring first goal in Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 win against Algeria in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group J opener, but his emotional reaction after the first goal drew significant attention. The Inter Miami captain was seen crying immediately after scoring. Messi, 38, later clarified that his tears were "completely unrelated to football," stating he had experienced "difficult days" and was grateful for the support from his teammates and the delegation. Messi's goals came in the 17th, 60th, and 76th minutes, marking his first World Cup hat-trick and bringing his total World Cup goals to 16, matching Miroslav Klose. This match was also his 200th appearance for Argentina and his sixth World Cup tournament. At nearly 39, Messi became the oldest player to score a World Cup hat-trick and a brace in the competition's history. The win provides Argentina with a strong start in Group J.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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