RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – A hat-trick from Lionel Messi powered Argentina to a convincing 3-0 win over Algeria in their Group J opener at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Kansas City, United States, on Tuesday, June 16, local time. Messi scored in the 17th, 60th, and 76th minutes to secure all three points for La Albiceleste.

The result lifted the defending champions to the top of the Group J standings with three points. The three-goal haul also marked Messi's first-ever World Cup hat-trick and saw him equal the all-time tournament scoring record held by Miroslav Klose.

The squad continues to be managed by Lionel Scaloni, the coach who led them to World Cup glory in 2022. Argentina maintains the core of its golden generation while gradually introducing new talent into the team.

Argentina’s new generation, including Nico Paz, Valentín Barco, and Thiago Almada, that are integrated into the senior national squad, ensure the team remains competitive on the global stage.

Gustavo Ricardo Coppa, Ambassador of Argentina to Indonesia said in a recent episode of Voice of Indonesia’s World Cup program, Deep Talk Soccer Fiesta! that Argentina has the strength to retain the World Cup title despite the challenges ahead.

“Argentina has power to do that. But there are many other important teams. Of course, we were happy if Argentinians have the back-to-back. But we know it is difficult. We are happy if Argentina goes to the finals or semifinals," he stated.

According to him, in Latin America, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico are among the major rivals, while in Europe, teams such as Germany, Spain, Croatia, and France are also serious contenders for the title. The Ambassador said that if Argentina wins, the Embassy will do something special.

Following their opening victory, Argentina are set to take on Austria in Dallas on Monday, June 22. The reigning champions have been placed in Group J together with Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.