Defending champions Argentina began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion with a 3-0 victory over Algeria, inspired by a historic hat-trick from captain Lionel Messi at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.

The 38-year-old football icon produced a masterclass performance, scoring in the 17th, 60th and 76th minutes to hand Argentina all three points in their Group J opener and send a strong message to the rest of the tournament. The hat-trick was Messi’s first-ever at a World Cup and took his tally to 16 goals in the competition, equalling the all-time World Cup scoring record. He also became the oldest player to score a World Cup hat-trick.

Argentina dominated possession and created numerous opportunities throughout the encounter, with Messi at the heart of every attacking move. His opening goal came from a brilliant long-range strike before he added a close-range finish after the break. The Argentine captain completed his treble with a clinical finish in the 76th minute, sparking celebrations among thousands of supporters inside the stadium.

Coach Lionel Scaloni later substituted Messi to a standing ovation as the football legend received widespread acclaim for another memorable display on the world’s biggest stage.

Despite showing resilience in patches, Algeria struggled to contain Argentina’s fluid attacking play. Star winger Riyad Mahrez and his teammates were unable to find a breakthrough against a disciplined Argentine defence.

Following the match, Messi remained humble about his latest achievement, describing his remarkable career as an “extra gift” from God. The comments further endeared him to fans, many of whom praised his gratitude and humility after yet another record-breaking performance.

The victory places Argentina in a strong position in Group J as they continue their quest to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title. Argentina will next face Austria, while Algeria take on Jordan in their second group-stage fixture.

With Messi continuing to defy age and expectations in his sixth World Cup appearance, Argentina’s hopes of retaining the trophy remain very much alive.

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