Messi Bags Hat-Trick as Argentina Cruise Past Algeria 3-0 in World Cup Opener

Lionel Messi made history on Tuesday night, scoring a sensational hat-trick to lead defending champions Argentina to a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group J opener.

The 38-year-old talisman wasted no time making his mark, opening the scoring in the 17th minute with a trademark clinical finish. Messi struck again in the 60th minute, before completing his treble with a brilliant 76th-minute goal, sending the crowd at Kansas City Stadium into a frenzy.

Aside from securing three vital points for Argentina, the match served as a historic milestone for Messi. By stepping onto the pitch, he became the first male footballer to play in six different World Cup tournaments, celebrating his landmark 200th international cap. Furthermore, his three goals brought his career World Cup total to 16, tying Germany’s Miroslav Klose as the tournament's joint all-time top scorer.

Messi received a rapturous standing ovation when he was substituted in the 79th minute. With this flawless start, La Albiceleste top Group J and will confidently turn their focus to their next match against Austria on June 22.