Algeria suffered a disappointing return to the World Cup after a 12-year absence, losing 3-0 to Argentina. Lionel Messi scored all three goals, achieving a historic hat trick in the match. The game, played early Wednesday morning Algerian time, marked Algeria’s worst-ever start to a World Cup campaign. This defeat casts a shadow over Algeria’s hopes in the 2026 tournament. Messi’s performance was the defining factor, dominating the match and securing a comfortable victory for Argentina. The result leaves Algeria facing an uphill battle in their remaining group stage matches. This loss is a significant setback for Algerian football fans who had eagerly anticipated their team’s return to the global stage.