ArgentinavsAlgeria

Argentina ran out comfortable winners over Algeria 3–0. Goalscorers — Argentina: L. Messi 17', L. Messi 60', L. Messi 76'.

Argentina met Algeria in Group J of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Kansas City Stadium in Kansas City on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. It is one of the six matches in Group J, where the four sides each play three games and the top two advance directly to the Round of 32. With the eight best third-placed teams across the 12 groups also progressing, points here carry real weight from the opening whistle.

Argentina go in ranked 3rd in the FIFA World Ranking to Algeria's 28th — a gap of 25 places that gives Argentina the edge on paper. It is an inter-confederation meeting — Argentina of CONMEBOL against Algeria of CAF — the kind of contrast in styles the World Cup exists to stage.

Argentina enter the 2026 FIFA World Cup as defending champions and one of the strongest favorites to retain the trophy. Under the continued guidance of head coach Lionel Scaloni, La Albiceleste have built a squad that blends the brilliance of their golden generation with emerging young talent.

Algeria are one of Africa's most decorated footballing nations, with a proud history that includes winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019 with a dominant, unbeaten run. Les Fennecs play an attacking, possession-based style and possess a squad with significant European league experience.

Argentina: Argentina have won the FIFA World Cup three times: 1978 on home soil, 1986 in Mexico inspired by Diego Maradona's iconic performances, and most recently in 2022 in Qatar where Lionel Messi finally lifted the trophy. Algeria: Algeria have appeared at four World Cups: 1982, 1986, 2010, and 2014.

The match is scheduled at Kansas City Stadium in Kansas City, United States. Kickoff is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 01:00 AM (09:00 PM ET).