Messi Makes History in Argentina-Algeria Clash, Scores in Fifth World Cup

Darwin, 17 June : Lionel Messi etched his name into football history during the first half of Argentina’s World Cup clash against , becoming the first player ever to appear in six FIFA World Cups.

The 38-year-old Argentine captain reached another milestone in the match, marking his 200th appearance for his national team. Messi also found the back of the net in the 16th minute, joining an elite club of players to score in five different World Cups — a feat previously achieved by Portuguese superstar .

Messi had previously scored in the 2006, 2014, 2018 and 2022 editions of the tournament, with the 2010 World Cup remaining the only one in which he failed to register a goal.

Argentina made a lively start to their opening World Cup fixture against Algeria in Kansas City, with both sides exchanging attacking moves early in the game. Messi thought he had opened the scoring earlier, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Algeria also had a goal disallowed for the same reason.

However, the reigning world champions did not have to wait long for a breakthrough. In the 16th minute, midfielder initiated the move from midfield before Messi unleashed a stunning left-footed strike from around 25 yards outside the box.

Algerian goalkeeper , son of football legend , managed to get a hand to the ball but could not prevent it from finding the net, giving Argentina the lead in spectacular fashion.

Messi’s goal once again underlined his enduring influence for Argentina, as the veteran forward continues to rewrite football history on the sport’s biggest stage.