Messi hat-trick fires holders Argentina to win over Algeria at World Cup
Lionel Messi’s three-goal masterclass lifts Argentina past Algeria in emphatic World Cup opener, setting the tone for title defense.
Lionel Messi delivered a vintage performance with a first-half hat-trick to propel Argentina to a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria in their 2026 World Cup title defense opener. The match, played in Los Angeles, saw Messi strike in the 12th, 22nd, and 35th minutes, dismantling Algeria’s defense with clinical precision. Argentina dominated possession, registering 68% in the opening 45 minutes, and created 18 shots on goal.
