Two Inter Miami teammates made Major League Soccer history on Tuesday as Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri.
Lionel Messi scored a hat trick, tying the all-time World Cup goal-scoring record. His opening strike in the 17th minute was assisted by Rodrigo De Paul.
According to USA TODAY, this marked the first time in World Cup history that two MLS players from a non-United States national team combined to score a goal.
De Paul, who transferred to Inter Miami from Atlético Madrid, has now assisted five of Messi's last seven goals for both club and country since November 2025.
Messi's Enjoyment and Scaloni's Praise
"He's an animal," De Paul told DSports, noting that Messi is enjoying his time on the pitch without the heavy pressure he carried for a long time.
"What makes me happiest is I feel that he's enjoying it, that he doesn't feel that pressure that he had for so long," De Paul said, as reported by USA TODAY.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni expressed his continuous admiration for the 38-year-old captain, who is defending Argentina's World Cup title alongside a supportive squad.
"It's hard to explain. We are amazed with him (Messi) even though we see him on a daily basis," Scaloni said.
Scaloni noted that Messi has maintained his status at the highest level of football for two decades.
"He's been the best for 20 years, he still pulls it off every single match.
You don't have to be an Argentine fan to admire him at age 38," Scaloni said.
The coach also addressed De Paul's performance, revealing that he demanded more intensity and focus during a first-half hydration break.
"When he left for Inter (Miami), we are not interested in the leagues," Scaloni said, emphasizing that national team selections prioritize individual physical growth and form over league placement.
"We care about the growth. He is playing at a very good level, his physicality is very good.
When he plays with the people he knows, he plays well," Scaloni said.
De Paul responded by playing the full 90 minutes, securing the midfield after setting up the opening sequence against Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
"He is very decisive," Scaloni said, explaining that the entire team reacts when the midfielder loses focus on the pitch.
"When he relaxes, we all feel it. I asked him to give a little more.
I am happy because I never hesitated to have him play in the game," Scaloni said.
MLS Commissioner Highlights League's Global Reach
MLS commissioner Don Garber attended the match, highlighting that the tournament showcases global talent representing the American domestic league.
"MLS is a league that represents the rest of the world," Garber said.
Garber stated that having Miami teammates produce top-tier international performances actively promotes the growing profile of MLS.
"When I watch Argentina play, I might love the way that they play and love that they are world champions.
But, Leo Messi and Rodrigo De Paul play for an MLS team in Miami and they are representing our league," Garber said.
The victory leaves Algeria at the bottom of Group J following their opening defeat, while Argentina moves forward in its group campaign.
"We all know his mentality, and he doesn't let himself enjoy it much because he's focused on helping us, the team," De Paul said, describing the positive atmosphere that Messi's happiness brings to the entire Argentine locker room.
"I think he's good, happy, and I think that's contagious in the group," De Paul said.
