World Cup Lionel Messi was the man of the match in the clash between Argentina and Algeria in the opening round of the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, scoring all three goals in the 3-0 victory for the Albiceleste. After his first goal, he broke down in tears on the field. ❤️🩹 Leo Messi: “I cried after the first goal, yes… but it was something completely unrelated to football. 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.” At the end of the match, the forward spoke about the emotions he experienced in the first half and the reason he cried. “Yes, I cried after the first goal… But it was something that had nothing to do with football. I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side and gave me a lot of strength,” he stated in the mixed zone. The captain of Argentina was emotional in a game where he became the top scorer in World Cup history, with 16 goals in the competition, equaling the legendary Miroslav Klose. “I love playing football; it’s my passion since childhood. When I’m in good shape, I give my best. The first games in a World Cup are always tough, and it’s obvious that no one gives us anything for free. It’s a very competitive World Cup, with excellently prepared teams,” he emphasized. Lionel Scaloni, Argentina’s coach, was also impressed: “I was left speechless in front of Leo. What can I say? It’s incredible. He has been doing this for 20 years. Everyone in football wants to see him and enjoy his game.”
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