Defending champions Argentina began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion, defeating Algeria 3-0 as Lionel Messi delivered yet another unforgettable performance on football’s biggest stage.
The Argentine captain stole the spotlight with a sensational hat-trick, leading his nation to victory while rewriting the history books once again. At 39 years old, Messi became the first player ever to appear in six FIFA World Cups, extending a remarkable legacy that has defined an era of international football.
The occasion carried extra significance for the Argentine legend. Exactly 20 years after making his FIFA World Cup debut on June 16, 2006, Messi once again found the back of the net on the same date. Having scored during his first World Cup appearance two decades ago, he marked his 27th World Cup match with a magnificent hat-trick against Algeria.
From the opening whistle, Argentina controlled possession and dictated the tempo of the contest. Algeria showed resilience in the early stages but struggled to contain Messi, whose movement, vision and finishing proved too much for the African side.
Messi opened the scoring midway through the first half before adding a second after the break with a trademark finish. The Argentine icon completed his hat-trick late in the match, bringing the crowd to its feet and putting the result beyond doubt.
The three-goal haul was the first FIFA World Cup hat-trick of Messi’s illustrious career and added another remarkable chapter to a tournament résumé that already ranks among the greatest in football history.
With his latest goals, Messi also drew level with Miroslav Klose’s all-time men’s FIFA World Cup goalscoring record, further cementing his place among the sport’s immortals. The achievement comes after a career filled with records, trophies and unforgettable moments, yet the Argentine continues to find new milestones to conquer.
For Argentina, the victory represents the perfect start to their title defence as they seek to retain the trophy they lifted four years ago. With Messi still inspiring from the front, La Albiceleste have once again signalled their intent to challenge for football’s ultimate prize.
As the tournament progresses, the world will continue to watch closely. And if this opening performance is any indication, Lionel Messi’s extraordinary World Cup story is far from over.
Argentina – Remaining Group Stage Fixtures (Sri Lanka Time)
Argentina vs Austria
22 June 2026
10:30 PM (Sri Lanka Time)
AT&T Stadium, Dallas
Jordan vs Argentina
28 June 2026
7:30 AM (Sri Lanka Time – next day finish depending on match timing)
AT&T Stadium, Dallas
