Haaland Crowns Messi ‘Madman’ After 38-Year-Old’s Hat-Trick Kicks Off World Cup Campaign

Lionel Messi turned back the clock — and maybe wrote a new page in his legend — with a vintage hat-trick in Argentina’s World Cup opener against Algeria. At 38, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner didn’t just score; he willed his team to a 3-0 victory, reminding everyone why age is just a number when you’re arguably the greatest to ever play.

But the most telling reaction didn’t come from a commentator or a former teammate. It came from Erling Haaland, the Norwegian goal machine who knows a thing or two about finding the net.

Haaland, fresh off leading Norway to their first World Cup in 39 years, posted a simple but emphatic response on Instagram: “Messi is a madman 👑.” The post featured Haaland in a Norway jersey, his caption a mix of awe and respect that quickly went viral.

Messi’s Statement Start

Argentina needed a fast start after their shocking 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia in the 2022 World Cup opener in Qatar. Messi made sure history didn’t repeat itself. He had a goal disallowed early, but in the 17th minute, he uncorked a ferocious strike from outside the box that left the Algerian keeper with no chance. Two more goals in the second half completed his first World Cup hat-trick — and sent a clear signal to every team in the tournament.

The performance tied Messi for the most goals in World Cup history, according to official tournament stats. More importantly, it gave Argentina a winning foundation in Group I, where they still face Jordan and Austria.

Haaland’s Own World Cup Journey

While Messi dominated headlines, Haaland has been quietly building his own World Cup narrative. The Manchester City striker scored a staggering 16 goals in just eight qualifying matches to drag Norway to their first World Cup since 1987. He then bagged a brace in Norway’s 4-1 opening win over Iraq.

But the road ahead is brutal. Norway shares Group I with Senegal and, most notably, defending World Cup champions France. That means Haaland and company will likely battle Sadio Mané’s Senegal for the second knockout spot behind the French.

“I’m just focused on the next game,” Haaland said after the Iraq win, according to Norwegian media. “Messi does what Messi does. I have to do what I do.”

For now, the soccer world is enjoying the rare overlap of two generational talents — one in his twilight, the other in his prime — both lighting up the same World Cup stage.