Argentina has begun its campaign to defend its World Cup title against Algeria, with the match kicking off at 3:00 AM Dutch time. Lionel Messi scored a notable goal for Argentina during the first half, giving them a lead at halftime. This marks the start of the 2026 World Cup for the reigning champions. Messi’s presence confirms his continued role as a key player for the Argentinian national team. The match represents Algeria’s first challenge in the tournament against a formidable opponent. Fans are keenly watching to see if Argentina can maintain its winning form and progress further in the competition. This early goal sets a positive tone for Argentina’s World Cup journey.