Argentina begin World Cup defence against confident Algeria

Argentina commences its World Cup defense on Tuesday, facing Algeria in Kansas City. The reigning champions aim to defy historical odds, as no team ranked No. 1 by FIFA at the start of the tournament has ever won the trophy. Argentina, however, climbed to the top of the FIFA rankings last week for the first time since July 2025.

All eyes will be on 38-year-old captain Lionel Messi, who is participating in his record sixth World Cup. "I'm happy, savouring every moment and excited as ever," Messi stated last week. Coach Lionel Scaloni has some injury concerns, with left back Nicolas Tagliafico suffering a muscle injury, forcing a center-back to fill in during a recent friendly. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, however, has recovered from a finger fracture and is expected to start.

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I'm happy, savouring every moment and excited as ever.

If Tagliafico is fit, Argentina's starting lineup would likely feature 11 players from their 2022 World Cup-winning squad. This reliance on experience is key as they seek to become the first side since Brazil in 1962 to win two consecutive men's World Cups. However, they will remember their shock opening match defeat by Saudi Arabia four years ago, an upset Algeria will hope to replicate.

Algeria, considered underdogs in Group J, are on a strong four-match unbeaten run, including a draw against Uruguay and a victory over the Netherlands. Their forwards have been in good form, and offensive midfielder Ibrahim Maza, nicknamed "Mazadona," expressed confidence in his team's ability to challenge Argentina. Despite this, Messi emphasized the strength and unity of the Argentine squad, stating, "Opponents will find it very hard to face Argentina, because this is a very strong, very united group."

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Opponents will find it very hard to face Argentina, because this is a very strong, very united group.