Argentina vs. Algeria Projected Lineups, Starting 11 for Lionel Messi's Opening World Cup 2026 Group I Game
- Defending champions Argentina began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Algeria in Kansas City on Tuesday, opening Group J play for both nations.
- Led by Lionel Messi, Argentina aims to become the first nation in over 60 years to repeat as World Cup champions, while Algeria enters following a 1-0 win over the Netherlands and 4-0 victory over Bolivia.
- Argentina enters the tournament without defenders Marcos Acuna and Leonardo Balerdi due to injury, while Algeria, captained by Riyad Mahrez, replaced defender Ayoub Ghezala and omitted midfielder Ismael Bennacer.
- Messi pursues the all-time World Cup goal-scoring record with 13 career goals, five behind Miroslav Klose, while bookmakers favor Argentina as-245 favorites against Algeria.
- Methodical, patient play defines Argentina's approach to slowly control opponents, positioning the reigning champions as dominant favorites against Algeria in their Group J opener.
23 Articles
23 Articles
Argentina vs. Algeria: Starting 11 Lineups, Prediction, & Odds for World Cup
Argentina will begin its FIFA World Cup 2026 title defense on Tuesday night when Lionel Scaloni’s side takes on Algeria in a Group J opener at Kansas City Stadium. The reigning world champions arrive as one of the tournament favorites after topping the CONMEBOL qualifying table and winning three recent friendlies against Zambia, Honduras and Iceland by a combined 10-0 scoreline.The match also carries added significance as it is expected to be Li…
The selection of Argentina will debut before Algeria the framework of Group J of the World Cup. Learn the details of the duel of the defending champion
Kansas City Ahead of Messi's 200th International Match... Argentina Opens Final World Cup with Match Against Algeria OSEN = Reporter Lee In-hwan Lionel Messi's 200th international match will be held in Kansas City. The global AP news agency reported on the 16th that Argentina, ahead of their first match of the 2026 CONCACAF World Cup against Algeria...
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 38% of the sources are Center, 37% of the sources lean Right
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
