Defending champions Argentina kicked off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion, defeating Algeria 3-0 in their Group J opener with Lionel Messi producing a memorable hat-trick.

The Argentine captain once again proved decisive on the biggest stage, scoring all three goals as his side secured maximum points and sent an early warning to the rest of the tournament contenders.

Messi opened the scoring in the first half before adding two more goals after the break to complete his hat-trick. His performance ensured Argentina remained in control throughout the contest and rarely looked troubled by the Algerian side.

The victory was particularly significant as it came in Messi’s landmark 200th international appearance for Argentina. The veteran forward marked the occasion in style, delivering one of the standout individual displays of the tournament so far.

Argentina dominated possession and created the better opportunities throughout the match, while Algeria struggled to find a way past a disciplined Argentine defence. The reigning world champions combined defensive solidity with attacking quality to comfortably secure the result.

The win gives Argentina an ideal start in Group J, where they will next face Austria. Algeria, meanwhile, will look to bounce back when they take on Jordan in their second group-stage fixture.

With Messi showing he remains capable of influencing matches at the highest level, Argentina’s title defence has begun on a highly positive note.

India spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has weighed in on the controversy involving young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi following India A’s dramatic Super Over defeat to Sri Lanka A in the ongoing Tri-Nation Series.

The incident occurred after the match in Dambulla, where tempers flared between Sooryavanshi and Sri Lanka A cricketer Vishen Halambage. Reports indicated that comments were directed at the Indian batters as they headed back towards the dressing room after the game, leading to a heated exchange.

Video footage from the aftermath showed Sooryavanshi confronting Halambage before the two players briefly came into physical contact. Other Sri Lanka A players intervened and prevented the situation from escalating further.

Speaking about the matter, Bahutule described the episode as unfortunate and stressed that such situations can be avoided with greater discipline on the field. He expressed confidence that coaching staff from both teams would ensure similar incidents do not recur.

The coach also suggested that players on both sides should be educated about appropriate conduct during high-pressure matches, highlighting the importance of maintaining respect and sportsmanship even in intense competitive situations.

The altercation has sparked debate among cricket followers, with differing opinions emerging over the actions of the players involved. The incident came at the end of a tense contest that saw Sri Lanka A defeat India A in a Super Over after a closely fought encounter.

The young Sooryavanshi, regarded as one of India’s most promising batting talents, has attracted significant attention in recent months. However, the focus after the Dambulla match shifted from cricketing performances to player behaviour, prompting reactions from officials and coaches.

With the tournament continuing, attention is expected to return to on-field performances as both teams look ahead to their remaining fixtures.

The United States kicked off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in impressive fashion, securing a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their Group D opener at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, the hosts delivered an attacking display to collect all three points and make an early statement in the tournament. The match also marked a significant occasion as the USA hosted part of the World Cup opening festivities before turning attention to the action on the pitch.

The Americans took control early and maintained pressure on Paraguay throughout the contest. Their attacking movement and clinical finishing helped them establish a comfortable lead, while Paraguay struggled to contain the hosts’ pace and creativity in the final third.

USA seize control after fast start

The United States settled quickly and found success going forward, creating several opportunities through quick passing and aggressive pressing. Their attacking approach paid off as they built momentum and gradually stretched Paraguay’s defence.

Paraguay attempted to respond and managed to get on the scoresheet, but the South American side found it difficult to match the intensity shown by the hosts. The USA continued to create chances and added further goals to put the result beyond doubt.

With the victory, the United States moved to the top section of Group D and gained an important boost in confidence ahead of their upcoming fixtures in the tournament.

Strong opening result for hosts

A winning start is particularly important in a World Cup campaign, and the USA achieved exactly that with a comprehensive performance. The result gives the hosts valuable momentum as they prepare for the next stage of group play.

For Paraguay, the defeat means they will need a strong response in their remaining group matches to keep their hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds alive.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, with the tournament featuring an expanded format and more participating teams than previous editions.