Argentina vs. Algeria Projected Lineups, Starting 11 for Lionel Messi's Opening World Cup 2026 Group I Game
Lionel Messi is fully fit as Argentina opens its World Cup title defense against Algeria, which scored 24 goals in qualifying.
- On Tuesday, June 16, Argentina begins its World Cup defense facing Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. The Albiceleste seek a strong start to their tournament campaign this evening.
- Following a brief 20 minutes in Argentina's final warm-up against Iceland, Lionel Messi is fully fit for the opener. La Albiceleste has conceded just one goal across their final matches heading into this tournament.
- Argentina will likely deploy a 4-3 formation featuring Messi and Lautaro Mart, while Algeria's lineup includes Mahrez. The Fennecs remain a potent attacking threat, having scored 24 goals during qualifying.
- Analysts predict an Argentina 3 to 1 victory, with the defending champions expected to prevail over 90 minutes. However, the African side remains a threat, having demonstrated significant scoring capability throughout qualifying.
- Argentina aims to avoid an early upset like the one experienced against Saudi Arabia in their previous World Cup campaign. Success in this opener is critical for the team's momentum in defending their title.
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27 Articles
Defending champions Argentina begin a new hunt for the world title at 3:00 AM Dutch time. With Lionel Messi, the Argentinians will face Algeria at the 2026 World Cup.
Who Is the Referee for Argentina vs Algeria at World Cup 2026?
Defending champions Argentina begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 title defense against Algeria in a Group J clash in Kansas City. The match marks Argentina’s first appearance at the tournament since lifting the trophy in Qatar in 2022, while Algeria returns to the World Cup stage for the first time since 2014. With Lionel Messi and Argentina looking to make a strong start, FIFA has appointed one of the most experienced officials in world football t…
Lionel Messi begins his final dance in Kansas City. World champions Argentina open their Group J campaign against Algeria, who have yet to concede a goal in 2026 despite playing Uruguay and the Netherlands in warm-up matches.
kreiszeitung.de
mannheim24.deFares Chaibi will start the World Cup with Algeria tonight. Lionel Messi will kick off against the reigning world champion Argentina.
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