Argentina dominated Group J's opening match at Arrowhead Stadium, defeating Algeria 3-0 through a commanding display headlined by Lionel Messi's hat-trick. Messi's goals in the 17th, 60th, and 76th minutes secured the Player of the Match award and proved decisive despite Algeria's superior possession at 52 percent. Argentina generated more threatening chances, recording six shots on goal compared to Algeria's zero, while maintaining a 90 percent pass accuracy. The victory mathematically qualifies Argentina for the knockout stages with nine points. Algeria remains alive in Group J with four points, still capable of advancing to the Round of 16 but facing an uphill path. Argentina's clinical finishing and defensive solidity set an emphatic tone for their tournament campaign.