News Investigators/ Argentina made a strong start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over Algeria in a Group J match played on Tuesday night in Kansas City, U.S.
The defending champions were in control for most of the game and showed their quality against an Algerian side that struggled to cope with their attacking play.
Argentina enjoyed more possession, created several scoring opportunities and dictated the pace of the match from the opening whistle.
Captain Lionel Messi was the star of the night as he scored all three goals for Argentina to register the tournament’s first hat-trick.
The 38-year-old forward once again proved why he remains one of the greatest players in football history with a clinical display in front of goal.
Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute after a well-worked move involving midfielder Rodrigo De Paul.
De Paul delivered a precise pass into Messi’s path and the Argentine captain calmly finished past the Algerian goalkeeper to give his side an early advantage.
Argentina continued to press for more goals after the break and their efforts paid off in the 60th minute when Messi doubled the lead.
The forward found space inside the penalty area and finished confidently to put Argentina firmly in control of the contest.
With Algeria pushing forward in search of a way back into the match, Argentina exploited the spaces left behind.
Messi completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute, finishing another flowing attacking move to seal an impressive victory for the South Americans.
Algeria showed determination throughout the encounter but found it difficult to create clear chances against Argentina’s organised defence.
The North Africans worked hard in midfield and attempted to threaten on the counterattack, but they lacked the cutting edge needed to trouble the reigning world champions.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his team’s discipline and attacking efficiency after the match, noting that the players remained focused throughout the 90 minutes.
He also commended Messi for leading by example and delivering when the team needed him.
The victory gives Argentina three valuable points and puts them in a strong position in Group J.
For Algeria, the defeat means they will need a positive result in their next group match to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
The result also marked another historic achievement for Messi, who became the first player to feature in six FIFA World Cup tournaments.
NAN
