At 38 years old, Lionel Messi still knows how to put on a show. Messi was the star of the night on Tuesday, leading Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Algeria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Messi left fans awestruck with a hat-trick, equaling Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 World Cup goals in his 200th international appearance.
Among those left entertained was WNBA rookie Olivia Miles, who is enjoying a record-breaking season with the Minnesota Lynx, averaging 18.1 points, 5.9 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game this season.
Miles posted a clip of herself watching Messi’s third goal on her Instagram story and dropped a two-word comment.
“Greatest ever,” she wrote.
Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute, latching on to a brilliant through ball from Rodrigo De Paul before firing a 25-yard rocket into the top corner. He doubled his tally in the 60th minute, slotting home from close range after Alexis Mac Allister’s long-range effort was spilled. The hat-trick was completed in the 76th minute with a powerful strike set up by Nico Gonzalez to seal a memorable night for Argentina.
Messi-Inspired Vision Showing In Olivia Miles Play
While Messi has long established himself as one of soccer’s greatest, Olivia Miles is just beginning her career in the WNBA. Though the sports are vastly different, there are similarities in the way they operate.
Many have framed Miles as a player defined by elite passing, shooting, court vision, and quick decision-making – traits Messi is well known for. It’s easy to see why, as Miles grew up playing competitive soccer. She has said soccer helped her develop her on-field vision and awareness.
She is probably the most productive young player in the WNBA since Caitlin Clark, who was herself one of the most dominant rookies since Candace Parker. One thing in common: they all share a deep love for soccer.
Miles’ impact goes beyond the box score; she is an elite playmaker, strong shooter, and solid defender, a rare all-round threat in today’s WNBA. In Minnesota, Miles won’t just be another player; she’s likely to be a centerpiece of the team’s future success.
Read More:
Azzi Fudd loses ground as Olivia Miles shocks WNBA as early 2026 Rookie of the Year frontrunner
Amid Lionel Messi Hat-Trick, Jalen Brunson Gets Compared to Argentine Legend by Skip Bayless
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