Lionel Messi kicked off his 2026 World Cup campaign with a spectacular hat trick in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria, earning top honors as Matchday 1 officially wrapped up.

Despite Lionel Messi's masterclass against Algeria, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has reportedly decided to change the starting lineup against Austria.

Thierry Henry commented on the play that some think Lionel Messi deserved to be sent off in his World Cup debut.

Lionel Messi shared some insights on why he teared up after his first goal against Algeria in the World Cup: "It had nothing to do with football, I went through difficult days."

Lionel Scaloni lauded the masterclass performance of Lionel Messi after the captain netted a sensational hat-trick in Argentina's dominant 3-0 victory over Algeria to launch their 2026 World Cup campaign.

Lionel Messi found the back of the net for Argentina against Algeria, establishing a standalone record by scoring against 11 different nations in World Cup history.

With a stunning strike, Lionel Messi opened the score for Argentina against Algeria in the 2026 World Cup.

Franco Mastantuono emerged as one of the best prospects in the world, signing for Real Madrid. Although he seemed to be a regular for Argentina, he has not been included by head coach Lionel Scaloni, with no apparent injuries.

Algeria kicks off its 2026 World Cup campaign against heavyweights Argentina, but winger Riyad Mahrez is the shock omission from the starting lineup.

Argentina is beginning its title defense in the 2026 World Cup against Algeria, but Nicolas Tagliafico will be one of the main absences of the game.

Argentina kicks off its 2026 World Cup title defense against Algeria at Kansas City Stadium tonight, but Julian Alvarez will start the Group J clash from the bench.

Angel Di Maria managed to be one of the key players in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, he has not been included by head coach Lionel Scaloni in Argentina’s roster for the 2026 edition, making him a notable absence.

Paulo Dybala managed to be one of the protagonists of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, he has not been included by head coach Lionel Scaloni in Argentina’s roster for the 2026 edition, making him a notable absence.

Lionel Messi made history with a hat-trick as Argentina beat Algeria 3-0 in their World Cup debut.

Starting the competition as the reigning champions, Lionel Messi's Argentina will be heading to the 2026 World Cup with the task to be the first back-to-back winners in 64 years.