Messi was too good for us — Algeria captain Mandi reacts after hat-trick

Algeria captain Aissa Mandi has admitted Lionel Messi was simply unstoppable after the Argentina superstar inspired the world champions to a 3-0 victory in their opening match of the FIFA 2026 World Cup.

Messi scored a brilliant hat-trick as Argentina began the defence of their World Cup crown in style in a Group J clash at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri.

The Inter Miami forward’s treble also saw him draw level with the all-time FIFA World Cup goal-scoring record, further cementing his status among football’s greatest players.

Mandi hails Messi’s ruthless efficiency

Speaking after the defeat, Mandi acknowledged that Messi’s clinical finishing proved decisive.

“What made the difference is that they have a player who is ruthless; almost every chance he gets ends up in the back of the net,” Mandi told FIFA.com.

“He might be the best player of all time. His efficiency is formidable; we knew that.

“We tried to shut him down as much as possible, but it didn’t work – he was too good for us there.”

Messi shines on historic night

In front of nearly 70,000 fans, Messi delivered another memorable World Cup performance on his 200th senior international appearance for Argentina.

After both Messi and Algeria’s Fares Chaibi had goals ruled out for offside early in the contest, the Argentine captain broke the deadlock with a trademark piece of brilliance.

Picking up possession around 30 yards from goal, Messi glided past his marker before curling an exquisite finish beyond goalkeeper Luca Zidane.

His second goal arrived shortly afterwards when Zidane spilled Alexis Mac Allister’s powerful effort, allowing Messi to react quickest and convert the rebound.

The 38-year-old completed his hat-trick with another trademark curling strike from the edge of the penalty area, sealing a convincing victory for Lionel Scaloni’s side.

Scaloni praises inspirational captain

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was full of praise for his captain after another match-winning display.

“I don’t have the words to describe Lionel Messi,” Scaloni said.

“For 20 years, he’s had us used to seeing things like this, and he inspires everyone who watches him play.

“We’re going to take it one game at a time. The team is happy; we gave playing time to a lot of players. Hopefully, we can win the next one so everyone can be in the third group game.”

The victory gives Argentina a perfect start to their World Cup title defence, while Algeria will need to bounce back quickly to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.