World Cup: Messi marks 200th Argentina appearance with stunning goal

Lionel Messi marked his 200th appearance for Argentina with a stunning goal as the defending champions took a 1-0 lead against Algeria in their opening Group J match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup .
The Argentine captain struck in the 17th minute at Kansas City Stadium, receiving a pass from Rodrigo De Paul before driving a powerful effort from outside the box beyond Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
The goal was Messi’s 118th for Argentina and his 14th at the World Cup, moving him within two goals of Germany legend Miroslav Klose’s all-time tournament record of 16.
The game started at a frantic pace, with both teams having goals disallowed for offside inside the opening 10 minutes. Messi...