Alexis Mac Allister has shared the field with Lionel Messi through some of the biggest moments in Argentina’s recent soccer history, but even he appeared stunned by what the captain continues to achieve. After watching Messi deliver another historic performance, the midfielder struggled to find the words to describe the impact of the Argentina icon.
Messi produced a record-breaking display in Argentina’s opening match against Algeria. He remained the only scorer in the game after recording his first-ever hat-trick at the World Cup, after having played in the last six editions. The Algerians couldn’t do much but admire Messi as they suffered a 3-0 defeat.
Following the win, Mac Allister had nothing but praise for his teammate. “There are no words for Messi… if someone thought that this team was better without Leo, today it became clear that he is the most important,” he said. Messi, who will turn 39 years old next week, is one of the oldest players in the tournament.
The hat-trick moved the Argentine to the top of the World Cup’s all-time scoring charts with 16 goals, drawing level with Germany’s Miroslav Klose while also surpassing Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazario’s 15 goals. Mac Allister continued, “We have built a team for him, wherever he feels the most comfortable, so that’s what we are doing.”
Clearly, the Liverpool midfielder knows how to support Messi for the national side. Both men won the 2022 FIFA World Cup together and then also won the Copa America two years later. Despite Messi continuing to grow older, his impact remains the same for Argentina. Apart from his scoring feats, the Argentine captain currently sits level with Diego Maradona for the most World Cup assists with eight.
While he scored all the goals against Algeria, a single assist in Argentina’s next game against Austria would add another record to his prestigious resume. Messi will already feel comfortable with the environment, as he has been playing in American conditions since 2023 after joining MLS team Inter Miami.
Nonetheless, Argentina entered the tournament as favorites after lifting the trophy in 2022. It was Messi again who scored a brace against France in the final, eventually leading Argentina to a 3-3 draw and victory on penalties.
With most players from the previous squad still present, Argentina looks to defend its title with the number 10 leading the nation. Many thought Messi would retire after the last World Cup, but he continues to be the best player on the field. And if he’s comfortable, then the opposition has no other option but to get uncomfortable.
