World Cup 2026 opener: time, line-ups and TV for Argentina v Algeria

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La Número 12

·15 June 2026

World Cup 2026 opener: time, line-ups and TV for Argentina v Algeria

The Argentina National Team is putting the finishing touches on its debut at the 2026 World Cup. The reigning champion is looking to repeat the title won in Qatar and will begin its campaign against Algeria in Kansas City. Unlike the first match of the previous World Cup, Lionel Scaloni’s side hopes to start with a victory.

However, Algeria will not be an easy opponent for Argentina and will look to halt the dominance of the current champions after 12 years without taking part in the World Cup. Vladimir Petkovic’s team comes into its 2026 World Cup debut highly motivated after beating the Netherlands and Bolivia in its last two friendlies.

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For its part, the Albiceleste earned a 2-0 win over Honduras and beat Iceland 3-0 in its matches leading up to the World Cup. Ahead of the opening match of the most important tournament in football, Scaloni still has several doubts.

Despite his fractured ring finger on his right hand, Emiliano Martínez is one of the confirmed starters for the clash against Algeria. Nahuel Molina, who was also coming off a muscle issue, beat out Gonzalo Montiel for the spot and would start from the opening whistle.

Argentina makes its debut against Algeria in Kansas.

The former Boca player will be joined by Cristian Romero, although it remains to be decided whether Nicolás Otamendi and Lisandro Martínez will complete the back line. Meanwhile, Facundo Medina would replace Nicolás Tagliafico after he suffered a muscle tear against Honduras.

The midfield will consist of Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister, with support from Thiago Almada, who can drop back to help. Finally, Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez will lead the attack.