INTERNATIONAL — June 17, 2026
Lionel Messi Becomes First Player to Appear in Six World Cups
Messi scored a hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 win, reaching 16 World Cup goals and 120 international goals in total.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Khaama Press — corroborated by Amu TV — 2 min read

Lionel Messi achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first player in history to participate in six FIFA World Cups. The event unfolded during Argentina's group stage match against Algeria, which the team won 3-0.
Messi scored three goals in the victory, marking his hat-trick. These goals elevated his total in World Cup competitions to 16. He has now reached 120 goals in all international appearances for Argentina.
At the age of 38, with his 39th birthday approaching next week, Messi set an additional record. He is now recognized as the oldest player to score a hat-trick during a World Cup match. He further distinguished himself as the first player to score goals in five consecutive World Cup tournaments.
His consistent performances across multiple tournaments have solidified his status as one of the sport's most enduring figures. The match result contributes to Argentina's standing in the ongoing competition.
Read the original reporting at Khaama Press →
Reliability assessment
Two independent sources corroborate the core event of Messi's sixth World Cup appearance and hat-trick performance with consistent key details including scoreline, venue, and historical milestone
The source language reads straight.
Across the newsrooms
Where reports agree
- Messi is the first player to appear in six World Cups
- Argentina beat Algeria 3-0 with Messi scoring a hat-trick
- Messi reached 200 international appearances and 16 World Cup goals
- Messi debuted in 2006 and received a standing ovation in Kansas City
- Argentina's next group matches are against Austria and Jordan
Where reports differ
- Amu TV provides additional details on a disallowed goal and exact goal timings not mentioned by Khaama Press
Filed by 2 outlets
Khaama Press
Originating
Reported straight
Reported straight
Amu TV
Reported straight
Reported straight
Filed under
International — Lionel Messi, FIFA World Cup 2026, Argentina national team, Football
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