Algeria's Nabil Bentaleb (19) plays the ball against Argentina's Lautaro Martinez (22) during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Algeria in Kansas City, Mo., Tuesday, June

A Lionel Messi hat trick stunned fans for Argentina vs. Algeria to kick of the 2026 World Cup with a massive win. Recap the goals and highlights.

Lionel Messi began Argentina's defence of the FIFA World Cup with a stunning hat-trick, as Lionel Scaloni's side defeated Algeria 3-0 in Kansas City. Messi scored in the 17th, 60th and 76th minute, scoring his first-ever hattrick at the World Cup,

Use the latest MGM promo code CBSSPORTS to get $1,500 in bonus bets if your first bet loses for Germany vs. Ivory Coast, 2026 World Cup betting, UFC Fight Night on Saturday

It is difficult to pinpoint exactly when Algeria felt at home in the small college town home to the University of Kansas. Might have been when 500 people showed up at the airport to welcome its national team for the World Cup.