Veteran attacker Lionel Messi scored his first World Cup hat-trick as Algeria’s return to the FIFA World Cup ended in sadness as they fell 3-0 to Argentina in their Group J opener in Kansas City.

Even though the score seems good for Argentina, Algeria played well against one of the favourites before Lionel Messi’s amazing hat-trick, which tied him for the all-time World Cup goalscoring record.

Though they lost, Algeria demonstrated a good football mentality. Coach Vladimir Petkovic’s team showed courage and structure.

The game got off to an exciting start. Though a VAR review determined it offside, Messi believed he scored in the fifth minute. Algeria rapidly answered Fares Chaibi’s pass from Ibrahim Maza, but another offside call ruled out that goal as well.

Algeria played solid defence, and goalie Luca Zidane came up with numerous crucial stops. Messi scored in the 17th minute with an amazing left-footed attempt. Though behind, Algeria kept fighting, and Chaibi presented a continual threat.

Argentina dominating the ball defined the second half as well. Reacting swiftly to a rebound, Messi scored once again; his hat trick followed in the 76th minute with a curved shot.

Algeria concentrated on lost opportunities and lessons acquired while Argentina rejoiced. On June 22 in San Francisco, winning is essential to keep their chances of reaching the knockout rounds alive as they will next meet Jordan.

Though they lost, Algeria’s skill and tenacity reveal that their World Cup path is still on.