Argentina and Algeria meet at the World Cup for the very first time.

Lionel Messi holds the unique distinction of being both the youngest and oldest tournament goalscorer in his country's history.

Lionel Messi has over 60 hat-tricks across his historic career, but it is his very first hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup.

Lionel Messi has scored his 16th World Cup goal — no player in history has scored more.

Lionel Messi has now scored at 5 different World Cups — 2006, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026.

Lionel Messi has become the first player in history to feature in six different FIFA World Cup editions.

This is the 2nd time Argentina have won their World Cup opening match by three or more goals since they beat Greece 4-0 in 1994.

Argentina were ruthless in front of goal — 3 scored from only 1.23 expected goals.

This is the first win for South American teams at this World Cup — ending a run of 2 draws and 2 defeats against other confederations.

Argentina has won 7 straight World Cup matches against African opposition, a flawless run dating back to 1994.