CULTURE — June 25, 2026
Lionel Messi Turns 39 While Scoring Five Goals at 2026 World Cup
Argentina secured early qualification to the knockout stage after the forward's hat-trick against Algeria and two goals against Austria brought his career World Cup total to 18.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Khaama Press — corroborated by Ariana News — 2 min read
Lionel Messi marked his 39th birthday during the 2026 World Cup by scoring five goals in Argentina's first two matches. He recorded a hat-trick in a 3-0 victory against Algeria and added two goals against Austria.
These results have taken Messi's career World Cup total to 18 goals, placing him as the all-time leading scorer. Argentina secured early qualification for the knockout stage.
Messi leads the Golden Boot race. Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland each have four goals, while Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice against Uzbekistan. The strong showings have prompted discussion over whether the record of 13 goals in one tournament, set by Just Fontaine in 1958, could be broken.
The 2026 World Cup is the first to feature 48 teams and is hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Argentina, which is in Group J, will next face Jordan on June 28.
Read the original reporting at Khaama Press →
Reliability assessment
Two independent sources corroborate the core event of Messi's age, specific match performances, and goal tally with consistent details; no contradictions on verified facts.
The source language tilts sensational, leaning on hyperbole or charged phrasing. Ariana News: "still shines at his peak", "continues to make history", "brilliance", "unparalleled", "one of the most decorated players in football history" – these phrases use hyperbolic praise and present subjective admiration as fact to elevate Messi's achievements dramatically.
Across the newsrooms
Where reports agree
- Messi is 39 years old and performing at a high level in the 2026 World Cup.
- Messi scored a hat-trick vs Algeria (3-0 win) and two goals vs Austria for five total goals.
- Messi holds the record with 18 World Cup goals.
- Messi leads the Golden Boot race.
Where reports differ
- Ariana News specifies Argentina's group (J) and next opponent (Jordan); Khaama Press does not.
- Khaama Press provides additional details on other players' goal tallies and Ronaldo's milestone not mentioned by Ariana News.
Filed by 2 outlets
Khaama Press
Originating
Reported straight
Reported straight
Ariana News
Sensationalized
Sensationalized
Filed under
Culture — Lionel Messi, 2026 FIFA World Cup, Football, Argentina
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