‘Numbers don’t mean anything’: Messi after equalling World Cup goals record with hat-trick

Lionel Messi downplayed his latest record-breaking achievement after equalling Miroslav Klose’s all-time FIFA World Cup goals record, insisting that statistics do not define greatness.

The Argentina captain reached 16 World Cup goals with a stunning hat-trick in his side’s 3-0 victory over Algeria in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener, drawing level with former Germany striker Klose at the top of the tournament’s scoring charts.

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Messi’s treble also saw him move ahead of Brazil legend Ronaldo (15 goals) and extend his advantage over Germany’s Gerd Muller and France forward Kylian Mbappe, who are both on 14 goals.

Despite adding another milestone to his illustrious career, the 38-year-old remained focused on the bigger picture rather than individual records.

“It’s an honour. Mbappe and Ronaldo are there, but those numbers don’t mean anything. They’re just statistics. Ronaldo is one of the greatest and he’s not in first place, so it’s just one statistic,” Messi was quoted as saying by Argentine newspaper La Nacion.

Messi produced a masterclass against Algeria, scoring three contrasting goals to seal Argentina’s opening win. He broke the deadlock with a powerful long-range strike after a quickly taken free-kick from Rodrigo De Paul, added a second from close range after reacting quickest to a rebound, and completed his hat-trick with a trademark curling finish in the 76th minute following a dazzling run.

Also Read: FIFA World Cup: Messi hat-trick helps Argentina beat Algeria, equals World Cup goals record

The Argentine superstar was visibly emotional after scoring his first goal and later revealed that the reaction stemmed from personal challenges he had faced in recent days.

“It was something unrelated to the game. I went through some difficult and complicated days. I’m grateful to the team and all my teammates. They were always by my side and gave me the strength to get through this,” Messi said.

Reflecting on Argentina’s performance, Messi praised the team’s composure and maturity as the defending champions opened their title defence with a convincing victory.

“We were well-positioned when we had the ball and managed the game very well. We had the experience of the last one and nobody gives anything away,” he added.

The victory puts Argentina in a strong position in Group J and gives Messi the opportunity to become the outright leading scorer in World Cup history when the Albiceleste face Austria on June 22.