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Lionel Messi scores hat-trick as Argentina takes on Algeria in World Cup opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 8:00 AM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

Lionel Messi scores hat-trick as Argentina takes on Algeria in World Cup opener

Summary

Argentina faced Algeria in a Group J match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Lionel Messi highlighting the evening by scoring a hat-trick. The match concluded with a score of 3-0 in favor of Argentina, further solidifying Messi's standing as a top all-time scorer in World Cup history. Following the victory, Argentina supporters celebrated energetically at Arrowhead Stadium, taking over the venue’s walkways as they reveled in the win. With this match, Argentina is well-positioned to qualify for the knockout phase, needing only to secure victory in one of their remaining group matches against Austria or Jordan.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Lionel Messi scores a hat-trick to lead Argentina to a 3-0 victory.
•Argentina's win puts them in a strong position for knockout qualification.
•Fans celebrate passionately at Arrowhead Stadium after the match.
•Messi equals Miroslav Klose for most goals scored in World Cups.
•Patrick Mahomes acknowledges Messi's performance with a social media post.

Latest Updates

8:00 AMYahoo Sports — How Argentina fans celebrated win after Lionel Messi masterclass at Arrowhead Stadium

What they're saying

"
Lionel Messi’s first game at the 2026 World Cup in North America saw the Argentine take one step towards history. Argentina and Algeria faced off in a Group J clash, with the spotlight very much on Messi in what could well be his final ever World Cup.
— Yahoo Sports

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