Argentina Leads Algeria 1-0 at Halftime in FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

Kathmandu. In the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match of Group 'J', Argentina has taken a 1-0 lead against Algeria in the first half. Argentina's captain Lionel Messi's goal in the 17th minute became the difference in the first half of the match held at Kansas City Stadium. Messi, playing in his sixth edition of the World Cup, scored his first goal in the tournament to give the team the lead. The start of the game was dramatic for both teams. Algeria's Fares Chaibi's goal was disallowed after VAR review for offside. Before that, one of Messi's goals was also not allowed due to offside. After conceding a goal, Algeria tried to come back into the game. Although some opportunities were created by the combination of Hicham Boudaoui and Chaibi, they could not penetrate Argentina's defense. Chaibi's header went wide of the post, denying Algeria an equalizing goal. On the other hand, Argentina maintained control of the ball and continued to search for more goals. Although Thiago Almada and Messi created some chances, the scoreline could not be changed.