Argentina Leads Algeria 2-0 in FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier with Messi's Brace

Kathmandu. In the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group 'J' match, with captain Lionel Messi's second goal, Argentina has built a strong 2-0 lead against Algeria.

Until the 57th minute of the match, Algeria was trying to increase pressure for an equalizing goal. Although Ibrahim Maza sought an opportunity to shoot from the edge of the penalty area, Argentina's defenders blocked it. In the last few minutes, Algeria had tried to sharpen its attack by increasing the intensity of passing.

However, dealing a big blow to Algeria's efforts, Messi added another goal in the 60th minute of the match. He brilliantly found the net with his right foot from the ball that reached inside the penalty area, doubling Argentina's lead. Messi, who scored the first goal in the 17th minute, this is his second goal personally.

Messi, playing his sixth World Cup, has made a decisive performance, leading Argentina towards three important points in the first match of the group stage. With a two-goal lead, Argentina has further controlled the game, while the challenge of a comeback for Algeria has become even more difficult.