Defending champions Argentina kicked off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a resounding statement of intent, defeating Algeria 3-0 at the Kansas City Stadium in Missouri.
Captain Lionel Messi was the undisputed star of the night, delivering a masterclass performance and scoring a magnificent hat-trick to dismantle the Algerian defense and secure a perfect start for La Albiceleste in Group J.
Highlights: Argentina vs Algeria 2026
- Final Score: Argentina 3 – 0 Algeria
- Goals: Lionel Messi (17′, 60′, 76′)
- Venue: Kansas City Stadium, Missouri
Lionel Messi Equals All-Time World Cup Goalscoring Record
Beyond securing three crucial points for his country, the night belonged to Lionel Messi as he rewrote football history once again.
With his spectacular hat-trick against Algeria, the 38-year-old maestro has now reached 16 career World Cup goals, equalling the legendary German striker Miroslav Klose as the joint-top all-time goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.
Additionally, Messi set a new milestone by becoming the oldest player ever to score a hat-trick in a World Cup match.
Match Report: How the Action Unfolded
Algeria started the match with high intensity and briefly shocked the reigning champions in the 8th minute when Fares Chaibi found the back of the net. However, following a quick VAR intervention, the goal was ruled out for offside.
Argentina capitalized on the reprieve just nine minutes later. In the 17th minute, Lionel Messi opened the scoring with a trademark spectacular long-range strike from outside the box, leaving Algerian goalkeeper Luca Zidane with no chance.
[ 17' - Messi (Long-range strike) ]
[ 60' - Messi (Rebound finish) ]
[ 76' - Messi (Curling finish) ]
La Albiceleste continued to dominate possession into the second half. In the 60th minute, Alexis Mac Allister unleashed a powerful shot that was initially parried by Zidane, only for Messi to pounce on the rebound and tap in his second of the match.
The historic moment arrived in the 76th minute. Receiving the ball near the edge of the penalty area, Messi executed a flawless, curling finish into the corner of the net to complete his hat-trick and seal the 3-0 victory.
With the match securely won, manager Lionel Scaloni substituted Messi in the 79th minute to a standing ovation, bringing on young talent Nico Paz.
What’s Next for Group J?
Having laid down a marker for the rest of the tournament, Argentina will look to continue their winning momentum when they face Austria on Monday, June 22.
