Argentina vs Algeria Live: 2026 World Cup Score, Highlights & Updates
Defending champions Argentina kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup title defense against Algeria in a highly anticipated Group J opening match. The fixture marks the record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance for captain Lionel Messi.
Match Details & Schedule
- Date: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 (U.S.) / Wednesday, June 17, 2026 (GMT)
- Kickoff Time: 9:00 PM ET / 1:00 AM GMT
- Venue: Kansas City Stadium (Arrowhead Stadium) in Kansas City, Missouri
- TV Channel: FOX, FOX 4K
- Live Stream: Available via platforms like Fubo
Group J Overview
Group J features a mix of traditional heavyweights, rising African powers, and competitive underdogs. [2, 6]
| Position | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Argentina | 0 |
| 2 | Algeria | 0 |
| 3 | Austria | 0 |
| 4 | Jordan | 0 |
Projected Lineups
Both managers are expected to field attacking 4-3-3 formations:
Argentina: E. Martinez; G. Montiel, N. Gonzalez, C. Romero, F. Medina; R. De Paul, E. Fernandez, A. Mac Allister; L. Messi, J. Alvarez, N. Paz.
Algeria: L. Zidane; R. Ait-Nouri, R. Bensebaini, A. Mandi, R. Belghali; F. Chaibi, N. Bentaleb, M. A. Tougai; R. Mahrez, N. Benbouali, A. Boulbina.
Key Storylines
- Messi's Last Dance: At 38 years old, Lionel Messi begins what is widely anticipated to be his final international tournament after dominating MLS with Inter Miami.
- Algeria's Long-Awaited Return: Making their first World Cup appearance since 2014, the "Desert Warriors" qualified comfortably under coach Vladimir Petković and remain led by veteran star Riyad Mahrez.
- Avoiding the 2022 Trap: Argentina aims to circumvent the complacency that led to their shocking opening-match loss to Saudi Arabia in Qatar, a tournament they eventually won.
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