Vladimir Petkovic Lauds Messi After Hat-Trick Display: “Class Is Permanent”
Messi hat-trick powers Argentina past Algeria in World Cup opener.
Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic praised Lionel Messi after the Argentine forward produced a record-breaking hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria in their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign opener in Missouri. Following the match, Petkovic described Messi’s performance as a reminder that “class is permanent,” highlighting the forward’s enduring excellence at the highest level of international football. The defeat marked a difficult start for Algeria in the tournament, while Argentina began their title defence in dominant fashion.
Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute after a quick free-kick from Rodrigo De Paul found him in midfield. The Argentine captain drove through the centre of the pitch before unleashing a powerful long-range strike that flew past goalkeeper Luca Zidane into the top corner. The early goal set the tone for Argentina’s attacking rhythm and immediately put Algeria under pressure.
The second goal arrived in the 60th minute after a sequence of sustained Argentine pressure. A clever passing move involving Nicolás González created space on the left, while a rebound from Alexis Mac Allister’s effort fell kindly for Messi inside the box. The forward reacted quickly to slot home from close range, doubling Argentina’s lead and further asserting his influence on the match.
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Petkovic acknowledged that Algeria made costly defensive errors that allowed Messi opportunities to score, but he also credited the Argentine captain’s intelligence and positioning. He noted that Messi’s ability to anticipate crucial moments and capitalise on small openings continues to separate him from other players. The Algeria coach also pointed out Argentina’s collective strength, saying the team’s structure consistently supports Messi’s attacking output.
Despite the heavy defeat, Petkovic urged his side not to lose confidence, stressing the importance of learning from mistakes and improving ball movement and defensive organisation. He emphasised that Algeria must remain balanced and respond positively against different opponents in the group stage. Meanwhile, Messi’s hat-trick added another milestone to his career, taking him to 16 World Cup goals and tying Germany’s Miroslav Klose at the top of the all-time scoring chart, while also marking his 200th international appearance and participation in a record sixth World Cup edition.
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