World Cup 2026: Messi nets historic hat-trick as Argentina begin title defense with 3-0 triumph over Algeria

Argentina launched the defence of their FIFA World Cup title in commanding fashion on Wednesday morning as Lionel Messi delivered a historic performance to inspire a 3-0 victory over Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium.

The Argentine captain produced a sensational hat-trick in the Group J encounter, becoming only the second player in history to reach 16 World Cup goals. The treble, his first World Cup hat-trick, saw him draw level with Miroslav Klose at the top of the tournament’s all-time scoring chart.

Early VAR Drama Sets the Tone

The match burst into life in the opening minutes as both sides thought they had found the breakthrough.

Messi appeared to have given Argentina the lead after five minutes, but the celebrations were short-lived as the effort was ruled out for offside. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner disagreed with the decision, but the assistant referee stood firm.

Algeria then experienced similar frustration just three minutes later. Fares Chaibi finished confidently into the bottom left corner after being picked out by Ibrahim Maza, only for a VAR review to overturn the goal for offside. The decision left the Algerian players visibly disappointed after believing they had stunned the reigning champions.

Messi Breaks the Deadlock

After the frantic opening exchanges, Argentina gradually settled into their rhythm and found the breakthrough in the 17th minute.

A slick combination between Messi and Rodrigo De Paul carved open the Algerian defence, allowing the captain space on the edge of the penalty area. Messi seized the opportunity with trademark precision, curling his effort into the top right corner to put Argentina in front.

The goal rewarded Argentina’s growing control and handed Lionel Scaloni’s side a lead they would never relinquish.

Argentina Take Complete Control

Algeria remained competitive for long periods, but Argentina’s quality eventually proved decisive.

The second goal arrived on the hour mark when Messi reacted quickest to a rebound inside the penalty area. The veteran forward positioned himself perfectly before rifling a low finish into the middle of the net to double Argentina’s advantage.

With confidence flowing through the South American side, Algeria found it increasingly difficult to contain the world champions’ attacking movement.

Historic Hat-Trick Completes Comfortable Victory

Messi’s memorable night was completed in the 76th minute.

Nicolas Gonzalez provided a clever pass to the Argentine skipper on the edge of the box, and Messi did the rest. He shifted inside his marker before whipping a superb strike into the bottom left corner, sealing his hat-trick and ensuring Argentina opened their World Cup campaign with a convincing victory.

The final whistle confirmed a dream start for the defending champions and a landmark achievement for their captain, whose three-goal display moved him level with Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals.

What Comes Next?

Argentina will now shift their focus to their second Group J fixture against Austria as they continue their quest to retain the World Cup title.

For Algeria, attention turns to a crucial encounter against Jordan, where they will be seeking their first points of the tournament to keep their qualification hopes alive.