Messi scores hat-trick as Argentina plays Algeria in World Cup opener

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 4:49 AM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

Messi scores hat-trick as Argentina plays Algeria in World Cup opener
Summary

Lionel Messi netted a hat-trick in Argentina's opening match against Algeria at the 2026 World Cup, contributing to a dominant performance. The contest raised controversy when Messi was involved in a foul against Aïssa Mandi that went unpunished, igniting debates among viewers regarding whether he deserved a red card. The match continued as fans and analysts reacted to both Messi's scoring and the contentious incident. As Argentina moves further in the tournament, discussions around officiating decisions are expected to persist.

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By the Numbers
  • Messi scores three goals in the match against Algeria
  • Controversial foul by Messi on Aïssa Mandi goes unnoticed
  • Match is Argentina's first in the 2026 World Cup
  • Debate continues over Messi's eligibility to remain on the field
Latest Updates
  • 4:49 AMYahoo Sports🤔 Club World Cup: should Messi have been sent off against Algeria?
What they're saying
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It’s an image that’s causing a huge stir.On the night from Tuesday to Wednesday, Lionel Messi gave us a football moment of the kind we rarely see.In his first match of the 2026 World Cup, La Pulga...

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