Lionel Messi has produced a World Cup masterclass for the ages.

It was an early glimpse of what was to come.

Four minutes in, Messi made a clear run past Algerian goalkeeper Luca Zidane to save the legendary shot past Saidou’s flag. Fans celebrated as if they had won the World Cup. Journalists turned to one another, watching for the inevitable. It was happening. This was just a delay.

There were a few worrying moments when Messi’s boots caught on Aisa Mandy’s heels, but no action was taken and the Argentine took full advantage.

Messi’s moment arrived in the 18th minute. Twenty-five yards out, he turned onto his left foot and curled a superb effort into the top right corner.

Goalkeeper Zidane – French legend Zinedine – got both hands on it, but the strike was too powerful. Kansas City Stadium erupted in cheers as Argentina fans celebrated Messi’s 14th World Cup goal. It was the beginning of a historic night.

Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman said: “Messi is celebrating his first World Cup goal. He doesn’t seem to be getting old with his skills. He has the ball at his feet and as you would expect, he finishes it brilliantly.”

Two decades after his first appearance on this stage and now in his 27th World Cup, Messi continues to defy age. Throughout the game, he was constantly looking for options, waiting for Argentina’s next move. He looks fit, fast and menacing.

Messi struck again after 60 minutes. Zidane’s costly error allowed the ball to find its way into Messi’s path. With his usual composure, Messi slotted the ball into the net to come within one goal of becoming the top scorer in World Cup history. With this, he became the greatest player to score two goals in the World Cup.

Until this point, age has not dimmed Messi’s abilities. Since turning 35, he has scored 10 World Cup goals – the most goals scored by Harry Kane, Diego Maradona, Cristiano Ronaldo and Thierry Henry each.