Lionel Messi produced a masterclass as Argentina national football team opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria national football team on Tuesday night.
The Argentine captain stole the show with a historic hat-trick, scoring in the 17th, 60th and 76th minutes to seal all three points for the South American giants in their opening Group J fixture.
Messi’s first goal gave Argentina an early advantage before the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner doubled the lead shortly after the hour mark.
The veteran forward completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute, capping off a memorable performance that left fans around the world in awe.
The emphatic victory marked a legendary night in World Cup history, with Messi once again proving why he remains one of football’s greatest-ever players.
His three-goal display ensured Argentina began their quest for another world title in perfect fashion while Algeria struggled to contain the relentless attacking threat of the reigning world champions.
Football fans who missed the encounter were left stunned by the spectacle, as Messi delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament so far.
The 3-0 triumph places Argentina in a strong position in Group J, while Messi’s historic hat-trick will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the early stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.