Messi took the ball down the center of the pitch and unleashed a rocket into the back of the net, with the finish reportedly curling into the top corner. The goal was his first of the 2026 tournament and gave Argentina an early lead in the group stage opener.
Messi is back at the World Cup as he approaches his 39th birthday later in June. He led Argentina to the title at the 2022 World Cup and continues playing in MLS during what has been described as his golden years. Coverage of the strike suggests he remains capable of producing elite finishes on the biggest stage despite his age.





