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Defending champions Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in their first World Cup group stage match at Kansas City Stadium on Tuesday. Argentina’s big win in Group J was thanks to Lionel Messi, who scored a brilliant hat-trick against Algeria.
After scoring a hat-trick in the opening match, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner equalled German player Miroslav Klose’s all-time male goalscoring record of 16 goals.
Messi gave every fan in the gallery wearing the number 10 jersey a magical moment with his performance. Argentina’s victory and his hat-trick added a different dimension to the 2026 World Cup. The Argentine captain’s outstanding performance in the opening match of Group J proved once again to soccer fans that he is one of the best players in the world.
Messi, who will soon turn 39, has made his 200th appearance for his country and is the first player to play in six World Cups. He also made history by becoming the oldest player to score a hat-trick in the tournament.
However, Saudi Arabia defeated Argentina in the opening match of the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which was unexpected for the fans. But Argentina has started this tournament with a remarkable victory.
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“What makes the difference is they have a player who doesn’t forgive,” Algerian defender Aissa Mandi said of Argentine star Messi after the match, according to Reuters. “Almost every chance ends up in the back of the net.”
After the match, Argentine midfielder Mac Allister praised Messi, saying: “I think if anyone thought this team was better without Leo, today it became clear that Leo is the most important player of all. And that we have to build a team around him, where he feels comfortable.”
However, Messi has added to the excitement with his performances at the World Cup and has indicated that he is ready to show his magic in the upcoming matches. Argentina will face Austria in their second group match on Monday.
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