Messi reveals why he cried after scoring first goal in Argentina's win over Algeria

Lionel Messi has shared why he cried after scoring the first goal in Argentina’s 3-0 win against Algeria.

On Wednesday, Messi put on a great show with a hat trick as Argentina, the defending champions, beat the North African team in their first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group J.

But the most memorable moment of the night wasn’t just about his three goals. It was the sight of Messi, visibly emotional and in tears right after he scored the opening goal.

After the match, the 38-year-old Messi explained that his tears were not related to football.

“I cried after the first goal, yes… but it was something completely unrelated to football.

“I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength,” he said, according to Metro Sports.

Messi scored in the 17th, 60th, and 76th minutes. This was his first World Cup hat trick, and he now has 16 career World Cup goals, tying him with Miroslav Klose.

The goals also marked his 14th World Cup goal overall. This match was special as it was his 200th appearance for Argentina and his sixth World Cup tournament.

At almost 39 years old, Messi became the oldest player to score a World Cup hat trick and a brace in the history of the competition.

Argentina played well, even though Algeria had some time with the ball. Messi’s sharp finishing made a big difference.

A fourth goal for Argentina and one for Algeria were both ruled out for offside.

This victory gives Argentina a perfect start in Group J.