Sports Desk: Defending champions Argentina launched their FIFA World Cup title defense in emphatic fashion, defeating Algeria 3-0 thanks to a brilliant hat-trick from captain Lionel Messi.Playing in Kansas City, United States, Argentina dominated possession and dictated the tempo from the opening whistle. Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a stunning long-range strike from around 25 yards after receiving a pass from Rodrigo De Paul.Leading 1-0 at halftime, Lionel Scaloni’s side continued to control the match after the break. Messi doubled Argentina’s advantage in the 60th minute before completing his hat-trick in the 76th minute to put the result beyond doubt.Two minutes later, the Argentine captain was substituted to a standing ovation, having delivered yet another memorable performance on football’s biggest stage. Argentina’s disciplined defense ensured Algeria never found a way back into the contest as the world champions secured a comfortable 3-0 victory.The hat-trick also saw Messi reach a major personal milestone. His three goals took his World Cup tally to 16, drawing level with German legend Miroslav Klose on the all-time World Cup scoring chart.The victory ended Argentina’s long-standing inability to win their opening match as reigning world champions and provided the perfect start to their campaign to retain the trophy.Messi’s hat-trick not only delivered three points but also sent a strong message to the rest of the tournament contenders: Argentina remain determined to defend their crown and are once again among the favorites for World Cup glory.
