The opening match of Group J sees reigning world champions Argentina start their World Cup 2026 title defence in opposition to Algeria in Kansas Metropolis on Tuesday.
Lionel Scaloni’s facet arrive in North America among the many favourites to carry the trophy as soon as once more after a powerful qualifying marketing campaign and a prolonged unbeaten run within the build-up to the match.
Argentina topped the CONMEBOL standings, highlighted by a memorable 4-1 win over Brazil, and have since gained seven consecutive matches whereas conceding simply as soon as.
The South People are chasing a spot in historical past, aiming to change into solely the third nation after Brazil and Italy to retain the World Cup.
Algeria, in the meantime, are making their first World Cup look since 2014 after a powerful qualification marketing campaign. Vladimir Petkovic’s facet topped their CAF qualifying group and have proven encouraging type in current months, recording victories over the Netherlands and Bolivia whereas conceding solely twice throughout their final six matches.
The Fennec Foxes possess loads of attacking high quality by means of Riyad Mahrez, Mohammed Amoura and Amine Gouiri, and they’ll view this fixture as a chance to show they’ll compete with one of many match favourites.
World Cup 2026: Argentina v Algeria group information
Argentina captain Lionel Messi is anticipated to start out after recovering from a hamstring subject, with the Inter Miami star set to change into the primary participant to function at six totally different World Cups.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been cleared to play after overcoming a finger harm, whereas Leandro Paredes and Nico Gonzalez are additionally anticipated to be out there following current muscular issues.
The primary absentee for Scaloni’s facet is left-back Nicolas Tagliafico, who has been dominated out with a calf harm. Facundo Medina is anticipated to deputise on the left facet of defence.
For Algeria, Ramy Bensebaini stays unavailable due to an ankle harm, which means Samir Chergui might associate Aissa Mandi in central defence.
Amine Gouiri is match after earlier shoulder issues, whereas captain Riyad Mahrez and CAF qualifying prime scorer Mohammed Amoura are each anticipated to start out in assault.
