Reigning world champions Argentina began their defence of the FIFA World Cup title in emphatic fashion with a 3-0 victory over Algeria in their Group J opener at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.
Captain Lionel Messi produced a masterclass, scoring all three goals to lead La Albiceleste to a comfortable win.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner opened the scoring in the 17th minute when he unleashed a stunning left-footed strike from outside the box that flew past goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
Argentina continued to dominate after the break and doubled their advantage in the 60th minute. Messi reacted quickest to slot home the rebound after Zidane could only parry Alexis Mac Allister’s initial effort.
The 38-year-old then completed his hat-trick in style, collecting a pass from Nico González before settling the ball and firing another left-footed rocket beyond Zidane to score his third of the night and the 16th World Cup goal of his remarkable career.
The victory gives Lionel Scaloni’s men the perfect start to their campaign as they seek to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup trophy.
Argentina will next face Austria on June 22 at AT&T Stadium, while Algeria will look to bounce back against Jordan on June 23 at Levi’s Stadium.
