Argentina opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup title defense with a 3-0 demolition of Algeria in Kansas City, with Lionel Messi scoring all three goals. The reigning champions looked every bit the team that lifted the trophy in Qatar, combining clinical finishing up front with a defensive wall that Algeria simply couldn’t breach.
Lisandro Martinez played the full 90 minutes at the heart of Argentina’s defense, recording a 100% success rate in duels along with multiple clearances and interceptions. For a World Cup opener, where nerves tend to produce sloppy moments, Argentina’s clean sheet was arguably as impressive as the hat trick.
Messi turns back the clock
His hat trick against Algeria wasn’t just about individual brilliance. It was a statement that Argentina’s attack remains centered on the same player who has defined an era of football. The Group J fixture never felt competitive once Messi found his rhythm.
Martinez anchors the defense
