Kansas, United States.– The Argentina national team began its participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a firm step by defeating Algeria 3-0, thanks to a brilliant performance by Lionel Messi, who scored all three goals of the match and reached a historic milestone in the biggest soccer event.
You might be interested in: 2026 World Cup surpasses one million spectators in just five days of competition
A few days away from turning 39, the Albiceleste captain proved that he remains decisive in the global elite by scoring at minutes 17, 60, and 75 to secure the Argentine victory at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas.
More Read
With his hat-trick, Messi reached 16 goals in the history of the World Cups, equaling the German Miroslav Klose as the all-time top scorer of the world cups.
The Argentine star opened the scoring after receiving a through ball from Rodrigo De Paul and extended the lead in the second half by capitalizing on a rebound from goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of the legendary French former footballer Zinedine Zidane. Later, he completed his display with the third goal that sealed the match.
Argentina dominated much of the match and showed its credentials as a title contender from its first appearance in Group J, while Algeria had difficulty containing the offensive power of the current world champion.
More Read
After the match, Messi expressed his satisfaction with the result and highlighted the unity that exists within the Argentine squad.
“This is to enjoy with my family and with the people. Thanks to my teammates. We are very happy and we will enjoy this moment because we have a very united and strong dressing room,” stated the forward.
The captain also valued the importance of starting the tournament with a resounding victory.
“It was important to win the first match and doing it this way is much better. In the first half we controlled the game and in the second we were able to make an important difference,” he pointed out.
Messi also took the opportunity to thank the support of the Argentine fans who accompany the team in every international competition.
“I know that in Argentina this is experienced with a lot of passion. I want to thank the people for the effort they make to always follow us. They were in Qatar and now also here in the United States. I am very happy for their support,” he expressed.
The opening day of Group J will be completed with the match between Austria and Jordan, while Argentina will look to maintain momentum in their next tournament fixture.
