Argentina
Updated: 18/07/2026
Argentina
vs
Algeria
Argentina
vs
Austria
Jordan
vs
Argentina
Argentina arrive as reigning champions with Lionel Messi possibly playing his final World Cup at 38. Only Italy (1934-38) and Brazil (1958-62) have ever won back-to-back World Cups — Scaloni's Albiceleste are chasing that historic feat.
Group J, with Algeria, Austria and Jordan, looks manageable. Matches split between Kansas City and Arlington, Texas. The opener against Algeria at the iconic Arrowhead Stadium promises to be a celebration with thousands of Argentine fans.
If Messi plays, he will be the first player in history to appear at six World Cups. He already holds Argentina's all-time scoring record with 109 international goals.
Group J looks tailor-made for Argentina. Algeria, Austria and Jordan should be manageable. The key is reaching the knockout stage fresh. The real challenge comes from the round of 32.