Argentina faces striker dilemma after Messi hat-trick powers 3-0 World Cup win over Algeria

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick. Argentina won 3-0. And now coach Lionel Scaloni has what you might call a luxury problem: figuring out which world-class striker gets the nod next.

Argentina opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on June 16 in Kansas City with a comprehensive dismantling of Algeria, with Messi finding the net in the 17th, 60th, and 76th minutes. It was his first-ever World Cup hat-trick. The result leaves the defending champions sitting pretty atop Group J heading into their second match against Austria on June 22.

The Álvarez vs. Martínez question

Scaloni’s central dilemma revolves around Julián Álvarez, currently plying his trade at Atlético Madrid, and Lautaro Martínez, the Inter Milan forward who has been a consistent contributor to Argentina’s attack across multiple tournaments. Both players are legitimate starters for top-tier European clubs. Both have proven themselves in an Argentina shirt.

Recent training sessions have reportedly given Álvarez a slight edge, which would represent a notable tactical choice from Scaloni. Álvarez tends to offer more fluidity and off-the-ball movement, making him a natural complement to a Messi who increasingly operates as a creative hub rather than a traditional forward. Martínez, on the other hand, is the more clinical finisher inside the box.

A squad built for depth, not drama

The 26-man roster Scaloni announced in late May contained no real surprises. The blend of experience and emerging talent is deliberate, with players like Thiago Almada and José Manuel López representing the next wave of Argentine attacking talent, giving Scaloni options that extend well beyond the Álvarez-Martínez binary.

Scaloni has built his reputation on pragmatism. Since taking charge in 2018, he has led Argentina to the 2021 Copa América, their first major trophy in 28 years, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

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