Argentina vs Algeria Live Score: Lionel Messi scores for Argentina lead by 1-0

Lionel Messi became the first player to feature in five FIFA World Cups as Argentina opened their 2026 campaign with a 1-0 victory over Algeria in Kansas City. The milestone came in Argentina’s 19th World Cup appearance, their 14th consecutive, as they sought to defend their 2022 title. Messi, named in the starting lineup despite fitness concerns, was instrumental in Argentina’s goal, reacting quickly to a rebound after goalkeeper Luca Zidane parried a shot from Alexis Mac Allister. Argentina dominated possession and control early, with two tight offside calls denying both teams early goals. Algeria showed flashes of threat but failed to break through, while Argentina gradually tightened their grip on the match. The South American side adjusted their defense at halftime, replacing Gonzalo Montiel with Nahuel Molina, but maintained their 1-0 lead. Messi’s goal came in the first half after a swift counterattack. Emiliano Martínez played a long ball to Messi, who controlled it before setting up Mac Allister. The Liverpool midfielder’s powerful shot forced Zidane into action, and Messi capitalized on the rebound with a composed finish. The goal marked Messi’s 14th World Cup goal, further cementing his status as one of football’s greatest players. Argentina entered the tournament as defending champions after a dominant qualifying campaign, finishing nine points clear at the top of the CONMEBOL standings. Their route to the 2026 World Cup was impressive, securing qualification with five matches remaining. The match against Algeria was only the second between the two nations, with Argentina winning 4-2 in a 2007 friendly. The first half saw Argentina manage the game with composure, while Algeria struggled to break through despite early promise. Both teams had goals disallowed for marginal offside decisions, but Messi’s decisive moment sealed the lead. With the match still tight, Argentina held a narrow advantage heading into the second half, setting the tone for a potential quarter-final clash in Group J.