Argentina began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in style as Lionel Messi produced another unforgettable performance, scoring a hat-trick to lead the reigning world champions to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Algeria in their Group J opener at Kansas City Stadium.
The 39-year-old captain once again proved why he remains one of football’s greatest players, delivering all three goals to send Argentina to the top of Group J alongside Austria on three points.
Messi breaks the deadlock
The opening stages saw Algeria threaten early, even having a goal ruled out by VAR in the ninth minute, but Argentina quickly settled into the contest.
The breakthrough arrived in the 17th minute when Rodrigo De Paul picked out Lionel Messi, who calmly finished to give La Albiceleste a deserved 1-0 lead.
Argentina controlled possession for much of the first half, although Algeria remained disciplined enough to trail by just one goal heading into the break.
Argentina step up after halftime
Lionel Scaloni’s side returned with greater intensity after the restart and doubled their advantage in the 60th minute.
Messi found space inside the penalty area and guided a low right-footed finish into the bottom corner to make it 2-0, leaving Algeria with a mountain to climb.
Scaloni freshened his side with the introductions of Julián Álvarez, Nicolás González and Nahuel Molina, while Algeria responded with changes of their own including Riyad Mahrez, Mohamed Amoura and Houssem Aouar.
None of the substitutions could halt Argentina’s momentum.
Hat-trick hero
Messi completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute after Nicolás González provided the assist, capping another remarkable international display and putting the result beyond doubt.
The Argentine captain received a standing ovation when he was substituted four minutes later for Nico Paz, bringing an end to a masterclass that defined the match.
Argentina comfortably managed the closing stages to secure all three points and a clean sheet.
Match Statistics
Despite Algeria edging possession with 53%, Argentina were far more clinical in front of goal.
- Argentina shots: 9
- Algeria shots: 6
- Argentina shots on target: 6
- Algeria shots on target: 0
- Possession: Argentina 47%, Algeria 53%
- Pass accuracy: Argentina 90%, Algeria 93%
Algeria enjoyed spells of possession but failed to register a single shot on target against Argentina’s disciplined defence.
Group J standings
Argentina’s victory puts them level on points with Austria after the opening round of fixtures, while Algeria and Jordan remain without a point.
Group J after Matchday 1:
- Argentina – 3 pts (+3)
- Austria – 3 pts (+2)
- Jordan – 0 pts (-2)
- Algeria – 0 pts (-3)
With Messi already in inspired form, Argentina have sent an early warning to the rest of the tournament as they look to defend their FIFA World Cup crown.
