Algeria captain Aissa Mandi has conceded that Lionel Messi's clinical brilliance was the decisive factor as the Desert Foxes suffered a 3-0 opening defeat to Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday.

The defending champions ran out comfortable winners at Kansas City Stadium, with Messi sealing a historic hat-trick that drew him level with the all-time FIFA World Cup goalscoring record — all on his 200th senior international appearance.

Messi's masterclass sinks Algeria

Both teams had early efforts ruled out for offside, but Argentina's talisman soon settled the contest. Collecting possession roughly 30 yards from goal, Messi rolled his marker, drove forward, and curled a superb finish beyond the reach of goalkeeper Luca Zidane.

The 38-year-old doubled his tally on the hour mark. A powerful strike from Alexis Mac Allister proved too strong for Zidane to hold, and Messi pounced on the rebound to finish coolly with his right foot.

He then completed the treble with a trademark curling effort from the edge of the area, bringing his remarkable evening to a fitting close.

Mandi rues the gulf in class

Speaking to FIFA.com after the final whistle, Mandi acknowledged that containing Messi had been Algeria's central concern — but that even their best efforts could not neutralise him.