Messi Hat-Trick Powers Argentina to 3-0 Win Over Algeria, Defending Champions Start Strong
In the opening Group J match of the 2026 World Cup, Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 thanks to a hat-trick from Lionel Messi, securing a winning start.
On June 18, 2026, at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, the defending champions Argentina faced Algeria in the opening match of Group J. Led by captain Lionel Messi's perfect hat-trick, Argentina cruised to a 3-0 victory, starting their title defense in style.
The deadlock was broken in the 17th minute. Rodrigo de Paul delivered a precise pass, and Messi calmly slotted home from inside the box to make it 1-0. Argentina took that lead into halftime.
Messi struck again in the 60th minute, picking up a pass, driving forward, and unleashing a shot from the edge of the area that curled into the top corner. In the 76th minute, he completed his hat-trick, tapping in from close range after a pass from Nicolás González.
Statistically, Argentina had 10 total shots with 6 on target, while Algeria managed 7 shots with none on target. Algeria held 52% possession, but Argentina was more clinical. Argentina completed 561 passes at 90% accuracy; Algeria had 607 passes at 92%. Both teams had 2 corners. Argentina's expected goals (xG) was 1.23, Algeria's 0.31. Argentina's goalkeeper made 0 saves, while Algeria's keeper made 3.
Man of the match was undoubtedly Lionel Messi. In 80 minutes, he scored a hat-trick, took 6 shots, made 2 key passes, and completed 37 passes. The 38-year-old, who plays for Inter Miami CF, has 198 caps for Argentina. Born in Rosario, standing 170 cm tall, and valued at €15.00m, he once again proved his decisive quality on the biggest stage.
After this match, Argentina and Austria both have 3 points, but Argentina leads on goal difference (+3 vs +2). Algeria and Jordan are on 0 points, with Algeria bottom on -3 goal difference.
For Argentina, this win provides a solid foundation for advancing. Their next match is against Austria on June 23 at 01:00 (Beijing time). Algeria must regroup quickly; they face Jordan on June 23 at 11:00, needing a win to stay in contention.
Argentina showed the depth of a champion, and Messi's form is frightening. Algeria, despite dominating possession, lacked cutting edge and must improve their finishing. The second round of group matches will be decisive, especially the Argentina vs Austria clash.