Algeria faces Messi and Argentina in World Cup opener in Kansas City
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 2:08 AM
Last updated Jun 17, 2026
Algeria opened its World Cup campaign against Argentina and Lionel Messi on June 17, 2026, in Kansas City. This marks Algeria's return to the tournament after 12 years, having last participated in 2014. Known for its rich soccer history, Algeria is captained by Riyad Mehrez, featuring notable players like striker Mohamed Amoura. Luca Zidane, son of Zinedine Zidane, starts in goal for Algeria after switching allegiance from France, where he played at the youth level. The match is currently ongoing as fans engage with the action.
- •Algeria returns to the World Cup for the first time since 2014.
- •The team is referred to as Les Fennecs.
- •Riyad Mehrez is the team captain.
- •Luca Zidane started in goal for Algeria.
- •Match is taking place at Kansas City.
- 2:08 AMYahoo Sports — Where is Algeria? What to know about team facing Messi with a Zidane in goal
"Algeria returned to the World Cup for the first time in 12 years to face Messi and the defending champions.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
MLS•Jun 17, 2026, 2:07 AMSources: England eye mid-WC match vs. MLS side- EPL•Jun 17, 2026, 1:49 AMErling Haaland says 'No, I'm not' the best goalscorer in the world
- MLS•Jun 17, 2026, 1:47 AM📹 Messi levels with CR7 and Rivellino, passes Pelé, makes Copa history
- MLS•Jun 17, 2026, 1:43 AM🤝 Messi joins Ronaldo's table with opening goal vs Algeria
- Soccer•Jun 17, 2026, 1:37 AMMessi becomes first play to make sixth World Cup appearance
- EPL•Jun 17, 2026, 1:24 AMNorway coach hails Haaland after World Cup double
