Argentina faces Algeria in World Cup opener in Kansas City

3 sources1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 5:40 AM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Argentina faces Algeria in World Cup opener in Kansas City
Summary

Argentina begins its World Cup title defense against Algeria on June 17, 2026, in Kansas City. Both teams aim for a strong start in Group J, with Algeria returning to the World Cup after a lengthy absence. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, aims to become the third nation to retain the title after a stellar qualifying campaign. Algeria, after a strong showing in qualification, hopes to challenge Argentina's status as tournament favorites. The match is set for a 02:00 BST kick-off.

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Status Watch
  • Match scheduled for June 17, 2026, at 02:00 BST
  • Lionel Messi captains Argentina in his 200th international match
  • Algeria's Ramy Bensebaini ruled out due to injury
  • Both teams are coming off strong qualifying campaigns
  • Argentina's last World Cup loss was against Saudi Arabia in 2022
Latest Updates
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What they're saying
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Argentina begin their World Cup title defence against Algeria in Kansas City on Wednesday morning.La Albiceleste attempt to become just the third nation to retain the prestigious global crown. They sh...

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Algeria face defending champions Argentina in a daunting World Cup opener in Kansas City on Wednesday.The Fennec Foxes return to the global stage after a lengthy 12-year absence. They hope to replicat...

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Jordan make absolute history on Wednesday morning as they step onto the World Cup stage for the first time with an exciting meeting with Austria.The Chivalrous Ones secured automatic qualification by ...

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