Lionel Scaloni admits Lionel Messi's 'inexplicable' feats no longer come as a surprise

Messi's hat-trick at Kansas City Stadium allowed him to equal the all-time men's World Cup scoring record of 16 goals, matching Germany's Miroslav Klose.

In his 200th appearance, the 38-year-old became the first male player to compete in six World Cups and the oldest to net a hat-trick in the tournament's history, exactly 20 years after his first goal on the global stage.

Although the victory boosted Argentina's hopes of successfully defending their crown, Scaloni stated there was no room for complacency.

"This side understands that any team can defeat us," he added. "If you become even slightly overconfident, any opponent can claim victory. In this World Cup, peculiar and challenging events are occurring. If we perform correctly, it will be difficult for anyone to beat us."

Scaloni credited the win to the squad's chemistry, remarking that the bond between teammates is what carries them through when situations become tough.

The outcome means Argentina have avoided the opening-match stumbles of their 2018 and 2022 campaigns, and they now focus on their next encounter against Austria in Arlington, Texas on June 22.

"There is a long way to go in trying to reach the end," Scaloni said. "But it is always good to start by winning. That undoubtedly strengthens everything."