‘It has nothing to do with football’: Lionel Messi reveals why he cried after Argentina’s World Cup win over Algeria

NEW DELHI: Lionel Messi celebrated a historic night with tears, a hat-trick and another record as Argentina kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dominant 3-0 win over Algeria in Group J at the Kansas City Stadium.The 38-year-old was emotional after scoring the first of his three goals, leaving fans wondering why he was in tears. Messi explained after the match that his emotional reaction had nothing to do with football. “It had nothing to do with football, I had some difficult days,” Messi said after the match. “It was a completely non-sporting matter; I’ve had some tough, complicated days.”Although he chose not to divulge further details, Messi thanked those around him for helping him through a difficult period.“I’m grateful to the whole delegation, to my teammates. They put in a lot of effort to make sure I do well,” he added.The emotional moment was followed by an unforgettable performance. Messi scored his first ever World Cup hat-trick, equaling German legend Miroslav Klose’s previous World Cup record of 16 goals.Messi started the match three goals short of Klose but reached the milestone within 76 minutes. The Argentina captain first had a goal ruled out for offside before opening the scoring in spectacular fashion. He picked up the ball about 30 yards from goal, beat his keeper and brilliantly slotted past goalkeeper Luca Zidane.Algeria managed to keep Argentina largely in check for the remainder of the first half, although Alexis Mac Allister went close with a header that went over the bar. At the other end, Anis Hadj Moussa created one of Algeria’s best chances, but Emiliano Martinez comfortably conceded after a dotted line.The Argentine superstar completed his hat-trick with a signature curling finish from the edge of the box to mark his 200th senior international appearance in style.Messi later reflected on where he was in his remarkable career.“It makes me very happy to have lived through everything that has come my way. What I’m experiencing now is the cherry on top,” Messi said. “I’m very happy and grateful for this amazing group. I’m enjoying it so much.”The hat-trick added another chapter to an extraordinary international career that saw Messi lead Argentina to the 2021 and 2024 Copa America titles, the 2022 Finalissima crown and most importantly the 2022 FIFA World Cup.Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni could only marvel at another masterclass from his captain.“I have no words for Leo. What can I say?” Scaloni said. “He’s incredible.The win gave defending champions Argentina the perfect start to their title defence. Messi, now level with Klos on 16 World Cup goals, will have the chance to become the tournament’s clear top scorer when Argentina take on Austria on June 22.