Argentina dominated Group J's opening fixture, defeating Algeria 3-0 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. Lionel Messi orchestrated the victory with a hat-trick, scoring in the 17th, 60th, and 76th minutes to earn player of the match honors with a perfect 10 rating. Despite Algeria controlling possession at 52 percent, Argentina's clinical finishing proved decisive. The South Americans registered six shots on goal compared to Algeria's none, while Algeria's goalkeeper made three saves. Argentina's defense remained disciplined throughout, conceding no clear chances. The result gives Argentina three points and keeps them alive in the race for a top-two finish in Group J. Algeria, meanwhile, begins their campaign pointless and must recover quickly in subsequent matches to maintain qualification hopes.