Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick as Argentina beat Algeria 3-0 in their opening Group J fixture at the FIFA World Cup 2026 — but it was his tears after the first goal that drew as much attention as the scoreline itself.

Speaking at his post-match press conference, Messi confirmed that his visible emotional reaction had nothing to do with football. He described having endured a difficult personal period in the days leading up to the match, declining to share further details.

"It had nothing to do with football; I went through some difficult days. It was a matter totally unrelated to sports; I went through some difficult, complicated days," Messi said.

The Argentina captain expressed deep gratitude to the squad and the Argentine delegation for their support during that time.

"I'm grateful to the entire delegation and to my teammates. They made a lot of effort to make sure I am doing well. What I'm experiencing now is the cherry on top. I'm very happy and grateful for this wonderful group. I am enjoying it so much," he added.

A historic hat-trick

Beyond the emotion, the performance itself was remarkable. The hat-trick was Messi's first across all his World Cup appearances and lifted his all-time tournament tally to 16 goals — drawing level with Miroslav Klose's all-time record for the most goals scored in FIFA World Cup history.

Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria marks a commanding start to their campaign as they look to defend the title they claimed in Qatar four years ago under coach Lionel Scaloni — a triumph that delivered Messi his long-awaited first World Cup winners' medal.