2026 World Cup / Argentina vs Algeria: Lionel Messi's promise to Ibrahim Maza

16.06.26 FT World Cup

Argentina

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Algeria

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While Argentina cruised past Algeria thanks in large part to a Lionel Messi hat-trick, the match also delivered a truly emotional moment. In awe of La Pulga, Ibrahim Maza shared a special moment with the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner after the final whistle.

During Algeria's 3-0 defeat to Argentina in their opening game of the 2026 World Cup, Ibrahim Maza experienced an unforgettable encounter with Lionel Messi. According to Argentinian outlet Diario Olé, the young Algerian international expressed his admiration for the Albiceleste superstar during the match.

See also: 2026 World Cup / Argentina vs Algeria: Messi, VAR and Marciniak at the heart of a huge controversy

Maza also seized the opportunity to ask the Argentine captain for his shirt. Messi reportedly replied:

"No problem, you'll find it in the dressing room after the match."

After the final whistle, several Algerian players also took souvenir photos with Messi, who had just netted a hat-trick against the Fennecs.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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