BUENOS AIRES, June 17, 2026 (TON): Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 to move to the top of Group J with three points.

Lionel Messi gave Argentina an early lead and went on to score two more goals to complete a hat-trick. With his three goals, Messi equaled Germany's Miroslav Klose FIFA World Cup scoring record of 16 goals.

Messi's hat-trick answered doubts about his fitness following an injury and strengthened confidence in his ability to lead Argentina in their World Cup campaign.