Argentina and Lionel Messi will play Algeria to open their World Cup title defense as part of a group that also includes Austria. (AP video by Ronald Blum)

Despite having a very experienced team, Argentina will likely feature some of the world’s best young players at the 2026 World Cup. Scaloni has been unafraid to incorporate new talent into the squad, so expect his starting XI to include the likes of Real Madrid’s Franco Mastantuono.

FIFA’s pre-draw show, featuring stars like Brady, O’Neal, Judge, and Gretzky, ran nearly a full match before New Zealand’s orb was drawn

In the second Group D matchup of the day, Argentina defeated Algeria 2-1 in Rio at the Olympic Stadium. After a few half-chances by Algeria in the opening minutes of the match, Argentina would have the first real opportunity. In the 10th minute, Angel ...