Argentina Lead Group J at 2026 World Cup Behind Messi Brilliance

Argentina are sitting comfortably at the top of Group J at the 2026 World Cup after Lionel Messi delivered a stunning hat-trick in their 3-0 opening victory over Algeria. The captain followed up with a brace against Austria, cementing Argentina's position as group leaders with six points.

Austria also started strong with a 3-1 win over Jordan, powered by two goals from Arnautovic, and sit level on points with Algeria. Spain, the defending champions, will face one of these teams in the knockout round if they advance from their own group.