# Messi Makes History with First Hat-Trick in Ligue 1 Round 24 as First Foreigner Over 35
In a thrilling encounter in Ligue 1 Round 24, Lionel Messi etched his name into history with his first hat-trick in the French top-flight league, becoming the first foreign player aged over 35 to achieve the feat. The match, which pitted his current team, Inter Miami, against a formidable opponent, ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw, but Messi’s performance will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
The game was a high-stakes encounter, with both teams fighting to secure a crucial three points. Inter Miami came into the match looking to extend their recent good form, while their opponents, known for their defensive resilience, aimed to capitalize on any weaknesses. The first half was a cagey affair, with both sides struggling to break each other down. However, the second half proved to be a spectacle for the fans.
In the 52nd minute, Messi opened the scoring with a clinical finish, slotting the ball into the bottom-left corner after a well-executed through ball. His team were ahead, but the opposition soon responded. A defensive error allowed their forward to level the score just five minutes later. Despite the setback, Messi remained composed and involved in every attack.
His persistence paid off in the 68th minute when he converted a penalty, given after a handball by the opposing defender inside the box. This goal not only gave his team the lead but also marked Messi’s first goal in the league since his debut earlier in the season. The game was far from over, though. In the 80th minute, the opposition struck again, this time with a stunning strike from outside the box.
Just when it seemed the match was slipping away, Messi once again proved his mastery. With just eight minutes remaining, he completed his hat-trick with a stunning free-kick, curling the ball into the top-right corner from 25 yards out. This goal sent the crowd into a frenzy and cemented his status as a legend of the game.
Although the final scoreline ended in a draw, Messi’s performance was a masterclass in attacking football. His ability to dictate play, create chances, and finish with precision highlighted why he remains one of the most gifted players in the world, even at the age of 35. This match was not just about the goals; it was about how Messi continues to inspire and elevate the game.
With this hat-trick, Messi has re-written the history books in Ligue 1, and his legacy in the league grows stronger with every match. As the first foreigner over 35 to achieve this milestone, he has set a new standard for players of his age, proving that age is just a number when the passion and skill to play at the highest level remain intact.
This match will be remembered not just for the goals, but for the sheer enjoyment and excitement that Messi brought to the game. For Inter Miami, the result was a much-needed boost in their title hopes, while for Ligue 1, it served as a reminder of the league’s ability to attract the world’s best talent.
In the end, it was a day to remember for everyone associated with Lionel Messi. His hat-trick and leadership have already made this match a classic, and his legacy in French football will undoubtedly be celebrated for years to come.