Guinness World Record Confirms 5 New Records for Lionel Messi After Hattrick vs Algeria

Superstar Lionel Messi produced a 5-star performance as defending champions Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in their opening fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The team’s captain scored a hat-trick, leading La Albiceleste to a strong start in the group stage and prompting Guinness World Records to officially confirm five major new World Cup records for the football legend.

At 38 years old, Messi continues to make the headlines at the biggest stage, making it clear that he is one of the greatest players of all time.

Here are the 5 Guinness World Records he has now officially extended or achieved:

1. Most World Cup Matches Played (27)

Lionel Messi has now featured in 27 FIFA World Cup matches, setting a new benchmark for appearances in the tournament.

2. Most Minutes Played at the World Cup (2,394)

Following his appearance against Algeria, he also extended his record for total minutes played across all World Cup campaigns, showcasing incredible longevity and consistency.

All three of Leo Messi’s goals in his first career FIFA World Cup hat trick pic.twitter.com/jb05ZWMrVU

— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) June 17, 2026

3. Oldest Player to Score a Hattrick in the FIFA World Cup (38 years, 357 days)

Lionel Messi is now the oldest player in history to score a hat-trick at the World Cup, achieving the feat at 38 years and 357 days old, per Yahoo.

4. Most Appearances in FIFA World Cup Finals by a Football Player (6)

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and Barcelona legend became the first player to appear in six different World Cup tournaments.

5. Joint Top Scorer in World Cup History (16 Goals)

With his three goals against Algeria, Lionel Messi reached 16 career World Cup goals, tying the all-time record and scoring his first-ever World Cup hat-trick.

Haaland shines in Norway vs Iraq

Yankee Scores earlier reported that Norway beat Iraq 4-1 in the Group I opener, with Haaland scoring twice and claiming the game’s Man of the Match accolade on his World Cup debut.