Argentina face Algeria in World Cup 2026 opener as Messi's last dance begins

Argentina open their World Cup 2026 campaign against Algeria, with the match looming as the first step in defending the title they won four years ago (1). Lionel Messi, 38, is expected to feature in what will be his final World Cup appearance, while younger players in Scaloni's squad push to prove they are ready to carry the team beyond him. Algeria will not roll over, previews point to a competitive opening fixture, and every point matters in group play. Argentina come in off a 2–0 warm-up win over Honduras and have looked sharp despite minor off-field concerns near their Kansas City training base.