Argentina prepares for World Cup as Messi manages hamstring strain in Kansas City
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 4, 2026, 12:07 AM
Last updated Jun 4, 2026
Argentina's national soccer team is currently in Kansas City as they prepare to defend their World Cup title, with their first match scheduled against Algeria on June 16. The team's training sessions have attracted significant media attention, reflecting their status as reigning champions. Lionel Messi is nursing a mild left hamstring strain, which has restricted his involvement in team activities. He has been engaged in conditioning work separate from the main practice. Argentina's roster features 17 players from their 2022 World Cup-winning team. The squad will also play friendly matches against Honduras and Iceland before the tournament.
- •Argentina trains in Kansas City ahead of the World Cup.
- •Lionel Messi is recovering from a hamstring strain.
- •The team plays Algeria on June 16 at Arrowhead Stadium.
- •Argentina's roster includes 17 players from the 2022 championship team.
- •Training sessions have drawn large media and fan crowds.
- 12:07 AMYahoo Sports — Argentina’s World Cup title defense draws a frenzy in Kansas City as Messi nurses a hamstring strain
"Turns out that reigning World Cup champion Argentina draws quite a crowd no matter where it goes. Whether it be fans surrounding the team's upscale hotel near downtown Kansas City, or their first training session opened to media Wednesday that drew hundreds of reporters to the facilities of Major League Soccer club Sporting Kansas City, there are few places that Lionel Messi and the rest of La Albiceleste are not the center of attention as the tournament draws near. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni revealed his 26-man World Cup roster last week.
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