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League: EPLSport: SoccerCountry: EnglandCategory: Scores & Results

Argentina and Messi face Algeria in World Cup opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 11:43 AM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Argentina and Messi face Algeria in World Cup opener
Summary

Argentina begins its World Cup 2026 title defense against Algeria on Tuesday at Kansas City Stadium. Lionel Messi, making his sixth World Cup appearance, leads a squad aiming to become the third team to win consecutive titles. Argentina, the defending champions, look to avoid a slow start like in 2022, facing a competitive Algerian side which qualified with a record eight wins. Algeria, under coach Vladimir Petkovic, aims for a deep run, relying on key players like Riyad Mahrez and rising star Ibrahim Maza as they prepare for a group featuring Austria and Jordan. The match is set for 8 PM local time (01:00 GMT Wednesday).

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By the Numbers
  • •Match takes place on June 16 at Kansas City Stadium.
  • •Argentina's squad includes 17 players from their 2022 World Cup-winning team.
  • •Algeria qualified for the tournament with a record eight wins.
  • •Messi aims to become the first player to appear in six World Cups.
  • •Group J includes Argentina, Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.
Latest Updates
  • 11:43 AMYahoo Sports — Messi, Argentina begin World Cup title defence against Algeria: All to know
What they're saying
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Superstar Lionel Messi is back for a sixth World Cup and leads Argentina into their group match debut against Algeria.

Related Teams & Leagues
Sporting Kansas CityTottenham HotspurEPLSoccer

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