Live Argentina - Algeria (8h): Waiting for Messi to play

Argentina, the reigning champions, are preparing to face Algeria in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup, aiming to start their title defense on a strong note. The team, led by Lionel Messi, is determined to avoid the shock opening defeat they suffered against Saudi Arabia in the 2022 tournament. Their path in the group stage, which also includes Austria and Jordan, appears manageable, offering a potential for a favorable start.

However, Algeria is not expected to be an easy opponent. The North African nation boasts several notable players, including Riyad Mahrez, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Ibrahim Maza, and goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of the legendary Zinedine Zidane. Algeria has a strong recent record, having lost only one of their last 20 matches, and is known for its organized, disciplined, and tenacious style of play.

Despite Algeria's strengths, Argentina possesses a formidable squad that includes Julian Alvarez, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, and Messi. If the core players perform to their potential and coach Scaloni can effectively utilize Messi's talents, Argentina is expected to advance deep into the tournament. Opta's supercomputer predicts Argentina has a 68.2% chance of winning this match, with an 18.6% chance of a draw and a 13.2% chance of a loss. Sports Mole forecasts a 2-0 victory for Argentina.

In Group J, Argentina is likely to secure the top spot if they play to their full capabilities. The second and third positions are expected to be a contest between Austria and Algeria, while Jordan will likely view the tournament as a valuable experience against world-class talent. The projected starting lineups are: Argentina: E. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro, Tagliafico; De Paul, Mac Allister, E. Fernandez; Almada, Messi; Lautaro. Algeria: Oussama; Belghali, Mandi, Hadjam, Ait-Nouri; Bentaleb, Aouar, Maza; Mahrez, Gouiri, Amoura.