Lionel Messi had the best World Cup performance of his life Tuesday ... in Kansas City.

Thousands of Argentina fans turned Kansas City into a Lionel Messi pilgrimage, with banderazos, late-night parties and unwavering support ahead of the World Cup opener.

Lionel Messi and Argentina are back to defend their crown and showed it in style, as Messi tied the World Cup's all-time goals record with a hat trick in a 3-0 win over Algeria in both nations' 2026 World Cup openers in the Heartland of America on Tuesday.

Lionel Messi made the Argentina fans very, very happy during Tuesday night’s World Cup match at Kansas City (Arrowhead) Stadium.

Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce are living legends and future Hall of Famers, but both pale in comparison to Lionel Messi's global superstardom as Kansas City is finding out.

Rock Chalk Algeria” has turned into the World Cup's most unusual, amazing rallying cry. Even though the Algerian national team lost 0-3 on Tuesday against powerhouse Argentina, they've already won hearts around Kansas City.

Lionel Messi put on a show Tuesday night during Argentina's 3-0 win over Algeria. See photos of every goal.

Game recognized game on Tuesday night with Patrick Mahomes and Lionel Messi. The soccer superstar Messi worked his magic for his native Argentina in their

They almost missed their flight, made it just in time, and in Kansas City on Tuesday night Lionel Messi delivered a hat trick that made the entire chaotic trip feel worth it.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Lionel Messi used the front of his white-and-blue, sweat-soaked jersey to wipe the tears from his eyes, a flood of emotions cracking his usually calm, confident demeanor after he gave Argentina an early lead in its World Cup opener against Algeria.