Lionel Messi
Inter MiamiRW (CF)
Wide Forward
Jun 24, 1987 (38)
Left
5'7"
148 lb
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Scores hat-trick in WC opener
Messi scored three goals to go with six shots (four on goal), three crosses (one accurate) and two corners in Tuesday's 3-0 win against Algeria.
Analysis: Messi broke the deadlock for Argentina inside the opening 10 minutes, but his goal was ruled out due to offside. The Inter Miami star, who became the first player to ever appear in six World Cups, would break the deadlock with a long-range shot in the first half before adding two more goals after the break. Messi is now the top scorer of the tournament with three goals, ahead of players such as Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, but also tied Miroslav Klose for the record of most goals all-time in World Cup history. Messi is starting the tournament on fire, and when that happens, good things usually come for La Albiceleste.
Converts penalty in friendly
Messi (hamstring) scored a penalty goal in 20 minutes played as a substitute during Tuesday's international friendly against Iceland.
Analysis: Messi finally saw game time with the Argentinian national team after being sidelined since May 24, and he made a quick impact, capitalizing on an easy chance from the penalty spot and delivering the penultimate pass before his side's final goal. The veteran is now set to feature as a winger in his record-breaking sixth World Cup, and he shouldn't need many touches to make a difference, carrying high offensive value throughout the tournament. His inclusion in the initial squad will most likely push Giuliano Simeone to a substitute role.
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