Who refereed Argentina's 2026 Group J match against Algeria?

Szymon Marciniak refereed Argentina’s 2026 Group J match against Algeria.

The match took place on 16 June 2026 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, where Argentina defeated Algeria 3–0. Marciniak is a Polish referee and was listed as the central referee in the match officials section, distinguishing him from the assistant referees, fourth official and video officials.

The game became especially memorable because Lionel Messi scored all three of Argentina’s goals, completing a hat-trick in the holders’ opening Group J fixture. The result gave Argentina a strong start against Algeria in a group that also included Austria and Jordan.

Marciniak is one of Europe’s best-known referees. He also officiated the 2022 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and France in Qatar, so his appointment created a notable connection with Argentina’s previous World Cup triumph. That background can make the answer easier to remember, but the match record itself identifies him directly.