Sanjiv Goenka, the Chairman of the RP Sanjiv Goenka Group and a prominent figure in India's sports investment scene, has once again showered praise on Lionel Messi. This comes after the Argentine captain delivered an unforgettable performance against Algeria in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Just months after meeting Messi during his visit to India, Goenka's admiration feels even more timely, especially after the 38-year-old superstar netted a breathtaking hat-trick, leading Argentina to a 3-0 triumph. Messi's display was a masterclass in skill, control, and poise, reminding everyone why he’s considered one of the greatest in football history. Goenka had previously pointed out Messi’s humility and vision, and this World Cup opener showcased yet again the qualities that set the Argentine captain apart from the rest.

After a tightly contested start, Messi turned the tide of the match with three crucial goals. His first came from outside the box, followed by a quick reaction to a rebound for his second. He capped off the hat-trick with a precise finish in the second half, effectively sealing the deal and ensuring a smooth opening victory for the defending champions.

Lionel Messi Rewrites World Cup History With Record-Breaking Hat-Trick Against Algeria

Messi’s night in Kansas City was nothing short of historic. At the age of 38 years and 357 days, he made history by becoming the oldest player to score a hat-trick in men’s FIFA World Cup history. With this achievement, he broke the previous record set by Cristiano Ronaldo during the 2018 World Cup.

This hat-trick marked Messi’s first in World Cup play, which is quite remarkable given his extensive and illustrious international career. Those three goals brought his total World Cup tally to 16, tying him with German legend Miroslav Klose for the most goals ever scored in the tournament. He also surpassed Brazilian icon Ronaldo, further solidifying his status as one of the game’s all-time great goal scorers.

The timing of this achievement added even more significance. The match against Algeria marked Messi’s 200th appearance for Argentina and his sixth FIFA World Cup, making him the first male player to hit that milestone. Plus, the hat-trick came exactly 20 years after he scored his very first World Cup goal back in 2006. For Argentina, this victory was the ideal way to kick off their campaign. For Messi, it was yet another remarkable chapter in an already unparalleled international career.