Messi hat-trick powers Argentina to World Cup opening win

Argentina supporters gathered in Buenos Aires to watch their defending champions begin the 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a convincing victory over Algeria. Fans dressed in the national team's blue and white colours filled a fan zone, singing and waving flags as captain Lionel Messi delivered a memorable performance. The Argentine star scored all three goals, completing a hat-trick before leaving the field in the 79th minute. Each goal was met with loud cheers from the crowd, while the final whistle sparked celebrations among supporters dreaming of another World Cup triumph. "It was very emotional to be here," said fan Zulma Rebollo. "And on top of that, to come away with a 3-0 victory was the best part." Another supporter, Evelin Flores, said the result strengthened belief that Argentina can win a fourth World Cup title. The win gives Argentina an early lead in Group J and a strong start to the defence of the trophy it won in Qatar in 2022. Argentina's next match will be against Austria on June 22.