Messi explains why he cried after Algeria hat-trick

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick as Argentina beat Algeria 3-0 in their 2026 World Cup opener at Kansas City Stadium. The Inter Miami forward drew attention not only for his record-equalling performance but for an emotional celebration that left him in tears. Messi said the tears had nothing to do with reaching the milestone of becoming the first player in history to play in six World Cup finals.

"Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football," he said. "I went through some difficult days, but I'm grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it." Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni praised his captain, saying: "At a loss for words about Leo.

What can I say? He's incredible. It's not about imagining [if he could have a start like this]. He's been doing this for 20 years. People who watch football want to see him, it's not just Argentines. Beyond the result, we have to enjoy him. What he transmits to the world is incredible.

lionel messi, argentina, algeria, hat trick, world cup, 2026, inter miami, kansas city, tears, lionel scaloni