It was an afternoon defined by football's elite talents. Yet even surrounded by such brilliance, Lionel Messi remained the focal point.

Shortly after Kylian Mbappe of France and Erling Haaland of Norway each netted twice to announce themselves at the tournament, anticipation built for what would follow.

However this proved to be no mere sideshow. It belonged entirely to Messi.

His opening World Cup treble, a 16th goal in the competition to tie the record, and fresh proof that advancing years have not dimmed his influence.

Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 with Messi orchestrating every key moment.

As daylight faded over the Kansas City horizon, the 38-year-old etched his name into history as the first footballer to appear at six World Cups, edging ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo by a single day.

Exactly twenty years after debuting as an 18-year-old at the 2006 tournament in Germany, one of the sport's all-time greats looked sharp and purposeful on his 200th outing for Argentina.

A brief worry surfaced after his first goal when his studs clipped Aissa Mandi's heel around the 30-minute mark, yet no sanction followed and Messi pressed on.

Later he reflected: "Sharing this with my family and teammates who support me constantly feels truly special.

"Our group shares a strong bond. I feel sharp and we managed to claim victory in a demanding opener. Beginning with three points matters greatly.

"The supporters deserve thanks for filling the stadium once more and showing Argentina's deep passion for the game.

"All of this now feels like an added gift after fulfilling every ambition I held both on and off the pitch."

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni added: "Words fall short when describing Messi. For two decades he has delivered moments like these and continues to motivate everyone who sees him play."

An early sign of what lay ahead appeared quickly.

After four minutes Messi broke free and beat Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, only for an offside decision to deny a dream beginning. Supporters reacted as though the trophy had already been won while observers exchanged knowing glances that this was merely postponed.

By the 18th minute the moment arrived. From 25 yards Messi adjusted onto his left and bent a precise shot into the upper corner. Zidane, son of Zinedine, got both hands to it but could not keep it out. Kansas City Stadium erupted as tearful Messi celebrated his 14th World Cup goal and the start of a landmark evening.

Former midfielder Leon Osman noted: "Messi celebrates this goal with the same joy as his very first. His quality shows no signs of fading and the finish was executed with typical precision."

Two decades after his debut and now in a record 27th World Cup match, Messi continues to play beyond his years. He constantly read the game, anticipated movements and remained a constant threat throughout.

After an hour he struck again when a mistake by Zidane presented the ball. With trademark calm Messi rolled it into the net to sit one goal from the outright scoring record and become the oldest player to score twice in a single World Cup.

Age has clearly not reduced his output. Since turning 35 he has scored 10 World Cup goals, surpassing the career tournament totals of Harry Kane, Diego Maradona, Cristiano Ronaldo and Thierry Henry.

In the 76th minute Messi completed his hat-trick after a pass from substitute Nico Gonzalez. The script felt inevitable.

The strike drew him level with Miroslav Klose atop the all-time World Cup scoring chart.

Arms raised and eyes turned skyward amid roaring Argentina supporters, he savored the occasion. Even by his standards this stood out. He acknowledged the crowd as the stadium vibrated with sound.

Upon his substitution he departed to sustained applause while his name rang through Kansas City.

Long after the final whistle thousands of Argentina fans lingered to celebrate.

A wave of blue and white filled the stands with drums pounding and voices raised in song.

Many wore shirts bearing his name while others displayed tattoos in his honor. Every discussion centered on him.

To these supporters he represents far more than a player. Terms such as hero, idol and one of their own were commonly used.

He led Argentina to glory four years ago. Few would doubt his ability to guide them once more.

Even Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, accustomed to headlining here, watched from the stands captivated like everyone else by Messi's brilliance.

On a day filled with standout performers, the ageless Argentine rose above them all.