MESSI DELIGHTS IN RECORD-EQUALLING WORLD CUP HAT-TRICK

Lionel Messi described it as a “beautiful moment” after scoring the first World Cup hat-trick of his career to lead Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Algeria on Tuesday.

The 38-year-old captain struck all three goals in Kansas City as the defending champions opened their Group J campaign in style.

The treble also took Messi to 16 World Cup goals, drawing level with Miroslav Klose as the tournament’s all-time leading scorer.

“To enjoy this with my family, with my teammates, the ones who are always there, is a really beautiful moment,” Messi said.

“I’m happy.”

Messi also praised the spirit within the Argentina squad after a winning start to their title defence.

“The squad is a very united, very strong group,” he said. “It’s important to start with a win in the first game.”

“I’m grateful to the fans because once again they’ve shown that Argentina is crazy about this. We packed the stadium again.”

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was equally full of praise for his captain after another historic display.

“I no longer have the words to describe Messi,” Scaloni said.

“For 20 years, he’s had us used to seeing things like this, and he inspires everyone who watches him play.”

Scaloni, however, insisted Argentina remain focused on the task ahead as they prepare to face Austria in their second Group J match.

“We’re going to take it one game at a time,” he said. “The team is happy and hopefully we can win the next one.”