Defending champions Argentina launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a decisive 3-0 victory over Algeria. Captain Lionel Messi dominated the match, scoring a hat-trick before exiting in the 79th minute.
The commanding performance secures Argentina an early lead in Group J as they defend the title won in Qatar. Fans in Buenos Aires celebrated the result as a strong indicator of a potential fourth World Cup triumph.
Argentina continues group stage play against Austria on June 22.