Messi becomes the oldest player to score a hat-trick in World Cups.

At 37 years old, [Lionel Messi](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/lisandro-martinez-brilha-na-vitoria-da-argentina-no-mundial-2026/) surpassed [Cristiano Ronaldo](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/cristiano-ronaldo-procura-consagracao-historica-no-mundial-2026/) and made history in the World Cup by becoming the oldest footballer ever to score a hat trick in the competition. The feat occurred this Tuesday during Argentina’s victory over Algeria, in a match where the Argentine star was absolutely decisive and once again demonstrated why he is considered one of the greatest of all time.

Messi, wearing the number 10 jersey, shone brightly by scoring three goals that ensured Argentina’s triumph over the Algerian national team. The match, played in a completely packed stadium with an electrifying atmosphere, will forever be marked by the record broken by the Argentine captain, who surpassed the previous record held by [Cristiano Ronaldo](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/mbappe-faz-historia-no-metlife-e-ronaldo-inicia-ultima-oportunidade-no-mundial/). The Portuguese star held the title of the oldest player to achieve a hat trick in World Cups but has now been surpassed by his eternal rival.

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This achievement is particularly significant not only for the symbolism of Messi surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo, but also for its direct impact on Argentina’s aspirations in this World Cup. The South American team thus strengthens its title candidacy, gaining renewed energy and confidence for the upcoming matches. On the other hand, the eternal rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo takes on a new chapter, fueling debates and comparisons throughout the football world. For Argentine fans, this is yet another testament to the genius and longevity of their captain, who continues to make history even in the later stages of his career.

After the match, Messi did not hide his emotions and revealed to journalists what he felt when scoring his first goal: “I cried after the first goal, but it had nothing to do with football,” he confessed, emphasizing that the moment transcended mere sporting context. The Argentine, visibly moved, further explained that “it was a very special game” and that “it is a huge pride to be able to help the national team make history.” The words of the number 10 demonstrate that, beyond the numbers, there is a human and emotional dimension to his journey across the world’s pitches.

International media quickly reacted to the achievement, with headlines reporting Messi’s new record and praising the star’s outstanding performance against Algeria. Many former players and commentators highlighted Messi’s ability to remain decisive in high-pressure games, even at 37 years old. In a World Cup filled with surprises and several teams showing competitiveness, the Argentine captain’s performance did not go unnoticed and heightened expectations surrounding Argentina’s performance in the tournament.

The impact of this record goes far beyond statistics. Messi not only reinforces his position in the elite of world football but also further ignites the rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, fueling heated discussions among fans of the two geniuses. For Argentina, this hat trick is a clear sign that the team continues to rely on its greatest talent in great form, which could be decisive in the more demanding matches ahead. With this victory, the albiceleste national team moves closer to the Round of 16 with renewed favoritism and high morale.

A new phase now begins for the Argentine team, which, galvanized by Messi’s performance, heads into the upcoming matches with an enhanced status as a contender. The bar has been raised, and the pressure has increased, but if there is a lesson to be learned from this achievement, it is that Messi, even nearing 40 years of age, continues to challenge limits and write unforgettable chapters in the history of world football. The question that arises is: how far can the Argentine genius go in this World Cup? The football world is watching, and anticipation is at its peak.

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