Lionel Messi lifted the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, completing what many regard as the greatest individual career in football history. Now 38, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner returns to the world stage at FIFA World Cup 2026 with Argentina, who begin their title defence against Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.

A scalp Algeria will chase

Group J, which also features Austria and World Cup debutants Jordan, does not appear to be a major stumbling block for either of the two leading sides. Yet Algeria arrive with genuine ambition — keen to pull off the kind of upset Saudi Arabia managed against Argentina four years ago in Qatar.

Algeria qualified emphatically for this tournament after missing the previous two World Cups. Under Bosnian manager Vladimir Petkovic, they won eight of their 10 CAF qualifying matches. It is the country's fifth World Cup appearance, and their first since Brazil 2014.

Amoura and Mahrez carry Algeria's hopes

Mohamed Amoura finished as the top scorer in CAF qualifying with 10 goals, making him one of Algeria's most dangerous weapons heading into the tournament. Alongside him, captain Riyad Mahrez — the former Leicester City and Manchester City winger — will need to deliver on the biggest of stages.

Algeria were Africa Cup of Nations winners in 2019, and Petkovic will be hoping his side can channel that pedigree against a formidable Argentina outfit.

Messi and Scaloni's defending champions

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni possesses considerable depth in his squad but continues to rely on Messi to unpick determined defensive structures. Argentina have not failed to reach a World Cup since 1970 and have been knocked out at the group stage just once in their history — a record that underlines the scale of the challenge Algeria face.

The only previous meeting between these two sides ended in a 4-3 friendly in favour of Argentina back in 2007. Expect another tight contest when the champions open their 2026 campaign.

The match will be broadcast live on ITV in the United Kingdom, FOX in the United States, and SBS in Australia.

Score prediction: Argentina 1-0 Algeria