Messi Scores vs. Argentina, Ties Mbappé in World Cup Goals

Lionel Messi scored his first goal of the 2022 World Cup in Argentina’s 2-1 win over Algeria, tying Kylian Mbappé’s record of 13 goals in World Cup history. The match, played in Al Rayyan, marked Messi’s return to scoring in a tournament where he had been goalless in his previous three appearances. Argentina now sit atop Group C with 6 points, while Algeria drop to fourth in the group.

The decisive moment came in the 27th minute when Messi, assisted by Enzo Fernández, slotted home a low shot past Algerian goalkeeper Raïs M’Bolhi. The goal followed a contentious first half where Algeria dominated possession but struggled to break down Argentina’s defense. Messi’s second goal, a header from a corner in the 87th minute, sealed the victory and cemented his place in World Cup history.

How Messi’s Goal Tied Him with Mbappé

Messi’s strike against Algeria marked his 13th World Cup goal, matching Mbappé’s total from the 2022 tournament. The milestone came in his 25th World Cup appearance, extending his record as the most-capped player in the competition’s history. While Mbappé’s goals came in a single edition, Messi’s span across five tournaments—2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022—highlights his unparalleled longevity.

Argentina’s victory also ensured they top Group C with 6 points, while Algeria’s defeat leaves them with just 1 point from their first two games. The result puts Argentina in a strong position for the knockout stages, though they will need to navigate a potentially tough path ahead.

Key Numbers from the Match

Argentina’s dominance in the second half was evident in the statistics:

• Possession: Argentina held 58% compared to Algeria’s 42%.
• Shots on Target: Argentina 5, Algeria 2.
• Corners: Argentina won 4 corners to Algeria’s 1.
• Fouls: Algeria committed 17 fouls, compared to Argentina’s 12.

Algeria’s struggles in front of goal were stark, with M’Bolhi making a crucial save in the first half to deny Julián Álvarez. However, the team’s defensive organization in the second half allowed Argentina to control the game’s tempo.

What This Means for Argentina’s World Cup Campaign

With two wins from two matches, Argentina are now in pole position for Group C. Their next fixture against Poland on December 6 will be critical in determining their path to the knockout stages. A victory would secure their spot as group winners, setting up a potential clash with either Poland or Saudi Arabia in the round of 16.

For Messi, the goal against Algeria was a symbolic one, coming in a match where he was substituted in the 73rd minute. His return to scoring in a World Cup final suggests he remains a key figure in Argentina’s campaign, despite the team’s reliance on younger players like Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández.

Algeria, meanwhile, face a challenging road ahead. Their next match against Poland on December 6 will be crucial if they hope to avoid elimination. A win would keep their knockout stage hopes alive, but a defeat would likely end their World Cup dreams.

Reactions from Players and Coaches

Argentina’s manager, Lionel Scaloni, praised his team’s resilience after the match:

The players showed great determination today. We knew we had to be patient, and the goals came at the right moments. Messi’s contribution is invaluable, and it’s a great moment for him and for Argentine football.

Lionel Scaloni

Messi, speaking to reporters after the match, reflected on the milestone:

It’s a very special moment for me. I’ve been chasing this for a long time, and to achieve it in front of my family and friends here in Qatar is something I’ll never forget.

Lionel Messi

Algeria’s manager, Djamel Belmadi, acknowledged the defeat but remained focused on the next game:

We’ll take this as a learning experience. The team showed good moments, but we need to improve in front of goal. We’ll be back stronger against Poland.

Djamel Belmadi

Next Steps: Argentina’s Path to the Knockout Stages

Argentina’s next match against Poland on December 6 will be decisive. A win would secure their place as group winners, setting up a potential clash with either Poland or Saudi Arabia in the round of 16. Meanwhile, Algeria’s hopes hinge on their performance against Poland, with a victory needed to keep their knockout stage dreams alive.

For Messi, the focus now shifts to his individual record. With 13 World Cup goals, he has equaled Mbappé’s total, but the question remains whether he can surpass it in the knockout stages.