The strongest lineup Argentina vs Algeria: Messi faces Vietnamese-origin star

Argentina is rated higher due to its quality squad and vast tournament experience, yet Algeria's organized play remains capable of creating many difficulties in the World Cup 2026 opener.

The defending world champions Argentina will start their title defense by facing Algeria in the first match of Group J at the 2026 World Cup.

With a star-studded squad and the greatest player in history, Lionel Messi, as their leader, La Albiceleste is expected to have a relatively easy game against the African side.

Expected starting XIs Argentina vs Algeria

• Argentina: Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister; Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez.
• Algeria: Luca Zidane; Samir Chergui, Aissa Mandi, Ramy Bensebaini, Rayan Ait Nouri; Ibrahim Maza, Ramiz Zerrouki, Houssem Aouar; Riyad Mahrez, Amine Gouiri, Mohamed Amoura.

Argentina relies on its world champion core

Argentina enters the 2026 World Cup as one of the top candidates for the title. Under coach Lionel Scaloni, the South American side retains the core that won in Qatar 2022, along with several players now at their peak.

In goal, Emiliano Martinez remains a reliable presence. The defensive line of Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Tagliafico balances experience and physicality. Romero, in particular, is still seen as the defensive leader due to his aggressive style and organizational skills.

The midfield is highly regarded, featuring the trio of Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister. These players can control match tempo, circulate the ball, and support attacks effectively.

Up front, Lionel Messi is expected to continue in a playmaking role behind the two forwards Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez. The mix of Messi's experience with Lautaro and Alvarez's finishing ability creates a formidable attacking unit.

Algeria waits for Mahrez to create something special

Algeria comes to the 2026 World Cup with great confidence after an impressive recent run. The North African team is known for its disciplined play, tight defense, and quick counterattacks.

Luca Zidane is expected to start in goal. The defense, including Aissa Mandi, Ramy Bensebaini, and Rayan Ait Nouri, offers solidity and top-level European experience.

In midfield, Houssem Aouar, Ramiz Zerrouki, and Ibrahim Maza will handle battling and orchestrating play. This area is key if Algeria wants to limit Argentina's strength.

On the attack, Riyad Mahrez remains the biggest star. The former Manchester City player brings technique, experience, and game-changing ability. Alongside him, Amine Gouiri and Mohamed Amoura provide speed and dangerous runs behind the opposition's defense.

Before kickoff in Kansas City, Argentina is seen as superior due to squad quality and big-game experience. However, Algeria, with its disciplined defense and fast stars, can certainly cause many problems for Messi and his teammates on opening day.