Messi hat-trick fires Argentina past Algeria in Group J domination
Lionel Messi produced a sensational hat-trick as Argentina cruised to a 3–0 win over Algeria in their World Cup 2026 Group J clash, delivering a clinical and controlled attacking masterclass.
Messi opened the scoring with a sharp finish inside the box, added a composed second after quick combination play, and completed his hat-trick with a decisive close-range strike to seal the result.
Algeria struggled to contain Argentina’s attacking rhythm, with Enzo Fernández and Rodrigo De Paul controlling midfield and feeding constant service into advanced areas. Cristian Romero anchored a solid defensive line to shut down counterattacks led by Riyad Mahrez.
Score: Argentina 3–0 Algeria
Key actions:
- Messi – hat-trick, clinical finishing, attacking control
- Enzo Fernández – midfield dominance
- De Paul – pressing intensity
- Romero – defensive stability
- Mahrez – limited attacking impact
Man of the Match: ⭐ Lionel Messi – unstoppable hat-trick performance and total control of the game.