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 elevate 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 received seven consecutive matches whereas conceding simply as soon as.
The South Individuals are chasing a spot in historical past, aiming to develop 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 kind in latest 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 via Riyad Mahrez, Mohammed Amoura and Amine Gouiri, and they’ll view this fixture as a possibility to show they’ll compete with one of many match favourites.
World Cup 2026: Argentina v Algeria workforce information
Argentina captain Lionel Messi is predicted to begin after recovering from a hamstring problem, with the Inter Miami star set to develop into the primary participant to characteristic at six totally different World Cups.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been cleared to play after overcoming a finger damage, whereas Leandro Paredes and Nico Gonzalez are additionally anticipated to be accessible following latest muscular issues.
The primary absentee for Scaloni’s facet is left-back Nicolas Tagliafico, who has been dominated out with a calf damage. Facundo Medina is predicted to deputise on the left facet of defence.
For Algeria, Ramy Bensebaini stays unavailable due to an ankle damage, which means Samir Chergui may associate Aissa Mandi in central defence.
Amine Gouiri is match after earlier shoulder issues, whereas captain Riyad Mahrez and CAF qualifying high scorer Mohammed Amoura are each anticipated to begin in assault.
