League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

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 defeats Algeria 3-0 in World Cup opener as Messi sets records

Summary

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.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•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.

Latest Updates

3:06 AMYahoo Sports — 📹 Argentina cruise through Copa opener, Messi SMASHING records

What they're saying

"
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) ...
— Yahoo Sports

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