World Cup 2026, Group J, Argentina start with three tough tests 🇦🇷🇩🇿🇦🇹🇯🇴 | OneFootball

Group J of the 2026 World Cup promises high drama, blending the pedigree of the world champions with the defiance of teams hungry for glory.

Which players should you keep an eye on?

🇦🇷 Lionel Messi. He remains the epicenter of world football. Alongside young stars like Nico Paz, the eternal No. 10 will look to guide La Albiceleste with his magic still fully intact in his final great performance.

🇦🇹 Marcel Sabitzer. He is the engine of the European side. The Borussia Dortmund midfielder stands out for his tremendous intensity, long-range shooting, and the leadership needed to help his country compete at the highest level.

🇯🇴 Mousa Al Tamari. Nicknamed the ‘Jordanian Messi,’ he is pure electricity. The Rennes winger showed at the Asian Cup that he has deadly dribbling at speed, capable of breaking down any careless defense.

🇩🇿 Riyad Mahrez. His class with his left foot remains fully intact. His ability to create plays out of nothing and his experience at the highest level make him Algeria’s main attacking threat.

Which absences stand out the most?

The tournament will feel some major absences due to coaching decisions and injuries. Argentina spring a surprise by leaving out the flair of Alejandro Garnacho and the youthful magic of Franco Mastantuono, while Austria lose the attacking spark of Christoph Baumgartner, along with the surprising absence of Jordanian striker Yazan Al-Naimat.

Which match can’t I miss?

Without a doubt, Argentina vs Austria. It is the group’s ultimate clash of styles: Argentina’s combination play and experience against the suffocating pressure and direct physical tempo proposed by Ralf Rangnick’s side.

Who are the favorites to go through?

Argentina are the clear favorites to top the group. The second ticket to the round of 16 will be a full-on battle, with Austria starting with the edge thanks to their tactical discipline, although Algeria will not make it easy for them at all.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 Tim Warner - 2026 Getty Images