Lionel Messi delivered a vintage performance in Argentina’s opening Group J fixture of the 2026 World Cup against Algeria, netting a hat-trick within 76 minutes. Yet, just four minutes after completing his treble, the iconic forward was substituted off by coach Lionel Scaloni, sparking immediate discussion about his fitness and minute management for what is likely his final World Cup.

Pre-tournament concerns and a strategic approach

The decision to withdraw Messi, despite his scintillating form, appeared to be a precautionary measure rather than a response to an injury during the match itself, reported by Fourfourtwo. This strategic move by Scaloni comes after a period of concern surrounding Messi’s physical condition leading up to the tournament.

Weeks before the World Cup kicked off, Messi had been taken off during an Inter Miami game while notably clutching his leg. His club later attributed the issue to “muscle fatigue,” a diagnosis that prompted caution. Following this incident, Messi was benched for a friendly against Honduras and played a limited 20 minutes against Iceland, indicating a careful approach to his workload.

His 80 minutes on the pitch against Algeria, culminating in a hat-trick, suggests that the “muscle fatigue” issue has been managed, but Scaloni’s quick substitution underscores a clear intent to preserve his captain for the demanding schedule of a major tournament.

Read also: How Scaloni brought Messi back to rebuilt Argentina

A bid for history at 39

The stakes are incredibly high for Messi and Argentina. Having lifted his first-ever World Cup trophy in Qatar in 2022, Messi is now bidding to add a second title this summer. This would place him among an elite group; only 20 players in history have claimed the World Cup trophy twice. The legendary Pelé holds the record with three triumphs.

Messi will turn 39 years old during this tournament, making minute management a critical component of Argentina’s strategy. With the physical demands of multiple high-intensity matches, Scaloni’s decision to remove his star player after a hat-trick, even when seemingly in full flow, highlights a long-term vision. The aim is clear: to ensure Messi remains fresh and impactful throughout the knockout stages, giving Argentina the best possible chance to make history once more, as FourFourTwo reports.

Read also: Thomas Partey cleared to face England as major World Cup controversy erupts