Argentina defeats Algeria 3-0 in World Cup opener as Messi sets records
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 3:06 AM
Last updated Jun 17, 2026
Argentina opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over Algeria on June 16. Lionel Messi scored three goals, surpassing Pele in World Cup goals and becoming the all-time top scorer with 16. He has now scored in five different World Cups and is the oldest player to net three goals in a match at the tournament. The victory places Argentina at the top of Group J. They will next face Austria on June 22.
- •Argentina tops Group J with three points.
- •Lionel Messi scored his historic hat-trick during the match.
- •Messi reached 16 World Cup goals, the highest in history.
- •Argentina's next match is against Austria on June 22.
- •Messi’s performance includes surpassing Pele for goal involvements in World Cups.
- 3:06 AMYahoo Sports — 📹 Argentina cruise through Copa opener, Messi SMASHING records
"Those who stayed up late watching it went to bed a little earlier, and with a "foggy head."After all, Argentina opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 3-0 win over Algeria this Tuesday (16) ...
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