KANSAS CITY, United States — June 17, 2026
Argentina vs Algeria turned into a Lionel Messi masterclass as the Argentine captain scored all three goals in a commanding 3-0 victory to launch the defending champions’ FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in style.
Playing in front of a packed crowd in Kansas City, Argentina dominated possession and created the better opportunities throughout the match. However, it was Messi who stole the spotlight with a remarkable hat-trick that not only secured three crucial points in Group J but also added another historic chapter to his legendary international career.
The victory immediately strengthened Argentina’s credentials as one of the favorites to lift the World Cup trophy once again and defend the title they won four years ago.
Messi Opens the Scoring With Trademark Brilliance
The match started at a frantic pace, with both sides seeing early goals ruled out for offside. As the game settled, Argentina gradually tightened its grip on possession and began dictating the tempo.
Messi broke the deadlock in the 17th minute with a stunning strike from outside the penalty area. Receiving the ball in midfield, he advanced into space before unleashing a trademark left-footed effort that left Algerian goalkeeper Luca Zidane with no chance.
The goal marked Messi’s 14th FIFA World Cup goal and gave Argentina a deserved 1-0 advantage.
By halftime, Argentina remained in control, although Algeria managed a few promising attacks that kept the contest alive heading into the second half.
Second Goal Brings Another Milestone
Argentina intensified the pressure after the break and doubled its lead in the 60th minute.
The move began with a powerful effort from Alexis Mac Allister, whose shot was only partially saved by Zidane. Messi reacted quickest to the rebound and calmly slotted the ball into the net.
The goal took Messi’s World Cup tally to 15 goals, moving him level with Brazilian legend Ronaldo among the tournament’s all-time leading scorers.
With a two-goal cushion, Argentina looked increasingly comfortable as Algeria struggled to cope with the South American side’s attacking quality.
Hat-Trick Completes Historic Night
Messi completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute with another clinical finish.
Following a well-worked Argentine move, the ball found Messi outside the penalty area. The captain wasted no time, curling a precise left-footed shot beyond the goalkeeper and into the net.
The goal was particularly significant as it became Messi’s 16th FIFA World Cup goal, drawing him level with German legend Miroslav Klose for the most goals in World Cup history.
The achievement came during Messi’s 200th international appearance for Argentina, making the occasion even more memorable.
Most World Cup Goals in History
| Player | Country | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| Miroslav Klose | Germany | 16 |
| Lionel Messi | Argentina | 16 |
| Ronaldo | Brazil | 15 |
| Kylian Mbappe | France | 14 |
| Gerd Muller | West Germany | 14 |
| Just Fontaine | France | 13 |
| Pele | Brazil | 12 |
Standing Ovation for the Argentine Legend
With the result effectively secured, Messi was substituted in the 80th minute.
As he walked off the field, thousands of fans rose to their feet and delivered a standing ovation in recognition of his extraordinary performance. Before leaving the pitch, Messi handed the captain’s armband to veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi, who led the team for the remainder of the match.
The emotional moment highlighted Messi’s enduring impact on international football and the admiration he continues to command around the world.
Argentina Sends Early Warning to Rivals
Argentina’s dominant display showcased why the reigning champions remain one of the strongest teams in the tournament. Their control of possession, defensive discipline and attacking efficiency proved too much for Algeria to handle.
For Algeria, the defeat serves as a difficult start to their World Cup journey, while Argentina leaves Kansas City with maximum points and growing momentum.
With Messi already making history and equaling the all-time World Cup scoring record, Argentina’s quest for back-to-back world titles has begun in emphatic fashion
