Lionel Messi better than ever at 39? Argentina great still thriving and setting World Cup records - Between the Lines

Lionel Messi celebrates his 39th birthday on Wednesday having made an astonishing start to the World Cup. After the hat-trick against Algeria that took him level with Miroslav Klose's goal record, he scored twice against Austria to go two clear.

He only needs two more to match his total for the whole of the 2022 edition in Qatar, where he inspired Argentina to the trophy. Now in his record sixth tournament appearance, he somehow looks better than ever, allowing the holders to dream of winning it again.

All this from a player who did not even appear certain to feature. Messi's silence in the months before the tournament fuelled speculation he may not participate. "It's up to him, how he feels in his mind and his physical condition," said Lionel Scaloni in March.