The first was a brilliant strike from range. The second came as a sharp response to a poor save from the goalkeeper. The third was a pinpoint finish into the bottom corner. Argentina dismissed a fine Algeria side with disdain, and late in the match they were still fighting to preserve their clean sheet.
Messi is the oldest player to ever score a hat-trick at the World Cup. In the 82nd minute, he was substituted off and received a standing ovation from every person inside the stadium. Nico Paz replaced him, and Nicolas Otamendi replaced Cristian Romero in midfield.
With about 10 minutes remaining, including added time, Argentina kept pressing to keep Algeria off the scoresheet. In the 88th minute, Rodrigo De Paul closed down Rayan Ait-Nouri and cracked the ball 80 yards out of play.
Algeria made their final two changes in the 83rd minute. Adil Boulbina replaced Ibrahim Maza, and Ramiz Zerrouki replaced Nabil Bentaleb.
Lionel Scaloni will have to answer questions about why he left Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez on the bench. Lautaro Martinez is a respected member of the team and a clinical striker in Serie A. Alvarez has been lively since coming on as a substitute, and he may get the nod against Austria on June 22.
Argentina's next World Cup match is against Austria on June 22.
