Argentina vs Algeria, FIFA World Cup 2026 Live Score: Lionel Messi Scores A Stunner, ARG 1-0 ALG

Lionel Messi's 17th-minute goal has been the difference maker as of now.

It is all Argentina at the moment. Algeria are struggling to move the ball in the park.

A stunner from the Inter Miami star has put Argentina on the front. Messi has now scored 14 FIFA World Cup goals for Argentina. Messi gets to the edge of the box and picks the top corner with his swerving shot.

Almada nearly comes up with a brilliant defence-splitting pass, but it proves to be too long for Lautaro Martinez.

Ibrahim Maza comes up with a great pass to Fares Chaibi. Fares Chaibi thinks he has scored the opening goal for Argentina, but he has been judged offside by the barest of margins.

Lionel Messi thought he has provided a lead to Argentina, but he has been given offside. Relief for Algeria.

A straight header from Lautaro Martinez, but straight to the Algeria goalkeeper.

Argentina vs Algeria has kicked off.

Both anthems are being played just ahead of the match.

Argentina and Algeria will kickstart proceedings in Group J, which also has Austria and Jordan.

The Argentina vs Algeria match will kick off at 6:30 AM IST. Live telecast will be available on United8 Sports, while live streaming will be available on the Zee5 app and website.

Algeria have only qualified for the FIFA World Cup 5 times, and they reached the RO16 in 2014, which happens to be their best display.

Lionel Messi becomes the first player to appear in 6 FIFA World Cups.

Algeria (4-2-3-1): Zidane; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Ait-Nouri; Bentaleb, Boudaoui; Hadj Moussa, Chaibi, Gouiri; Maza.

Argentina (4-3-3): E. Martinez; Montiel, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Medina; Fernandez, De Paul, Mac Allister; Messi, Lautaro Martinez, Almada.