Argentina vs Algeria: Match Preview

Argentina open their World Cup title defense against Algeria on June 17 and they look ready to make a statement right away. Their recent form shows four straight wins in 2026, including comfortable victories over Iceland and Honduras. Algeria have also picked up results in friendlies but face a much sterner test here.

Lionel Messi returns to training after minor muscle discomfort and should feature from the start. That changes the dynamic for a side already stacked with options like Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez up front. Algeria rely on Riyad Mahrez to create chances, yet their attack may struggle to break down a backline led by Cristian Romero and Nicolás Otamendi.

Tagliafico sits out with a muscle issue while Balerdi remains sidelined, though Martínez in goal looks fully fit again. Algeria list Luca Zidane as a doubt after surgery, which could force changes in their projected 4-3-3. The single historical meeting dates back to 2007 when Argentina edged a 4-3 thriller, but that offers little insight into this clash.

Both teams enter Group J with zero points so far. Argentina's midfield control through Mac Allister and Fernández gives them the edge in possession and tempo. Algeria's recent clean sheets against Bolivia and the Netherlands show defensive organization, yet they rank around 28th globally and will need Mahrez and Amoura at their sharpest to cause problems.

Expect Argentina to dominate territory and create the better openings. Their attacking depth should prove decisive even if the game stays tight early on. Algeria will look to counter through Gouiri and Aït-Nouri but face an uphill battle against a side that has scored freely in every outing this season.