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The reigning champions arrive in the USA chasing history. Messi's farewell, a golden generation at full strength, and a group they should dominate.
Argentina lifted the World Cup in Qatar in 2022 with one of the most dramatic finals in football history. They followed that with the 2024 Copa America title, cementing their status as the dominant force in international football. Now they arrive in the USA seeking to become only the third team in history to defend the World Cup, after Italy (1938) and Brazil (1962).
The squad that won in Qatar has largely stayed together, with key additions from Argentina's next generation. The winning mentality, tactical flexibility, and squad chemistry that Lionel Scaloni has built make Argentina the team everyone else must beat.
At 38 years old, Lionel Messi will step onto the World Cup stage for what is almost certainly the final time. He has nothing left to prove. Seven Ballon d'Or awards, the 2022 World Cup, two Copa Americas, and a career that transcends statistics. But Messi has made clear he wants to be part of this squad, and Scaloni has confirmed he will be included.
His role will likely be different from 2022. Messi may not start every match, but his impact from the bench, his leadership in the dressing room, and his ability to produce magic in knockout moments make him an irreplaceable part of the squad. The mere presence of Messi lifts the entire team and strikes fear into opponents.
For neutral fans worldwide, this is the last chance to see the greatest player of all time at the World Cup. Every Argentina match will carry that additional layer of emotion and significance.
Argentina have drawn what many consider the most favorable group in the tournament. Algeria, Austria, and Jordan are all competitive nations, but none should threaten the defending champions.
| Team | FIFA Ranking | Pedigree |
|---|---|---|
| Argentina | 1st | 2022 Champions |
| Algeria | 33rd | 2014 Round of 16 |
| Austria | 22nd | 1982 Group Stage |
| Jordan | 68th | First World Cup |
Argentina should win this group with maximum or near-maximum points. Austria are solid but lack the star quality to challenge. Algeria have pace and physicality but are inconsistent. Jordan are appearing at their first-ever World Cup and will be focused on the experience rather than results against the world champions.
The schedule allows Scaloni to manage his squad carefully. The Algeria opener in Kansas City sets the tone, and two matches in Dallas provide consistency. Expect Messi to be used selectively, with the coaching staff prioritizing freshness for the knockout rounds.
Beyond the starting eleven, Argentina's bench includes Alexis Mac Allister, Nahuel Molina, Nicolas Tagliafico, and Emiliano Martinez in goal. The depth is remarkable. Every position has at least two players who would start for most other nations. This is what makes Argentina the team to beat.
Yes. Messi has been included in Argentina's 2026 World Cup squad. At 38, this is expected to be his final World Cup. His role may involve rotation, but he remains a key part of the squad for leadership and big-moment impact.
Argentina are among the top favorites. Only Italy (1938) and Brazil (1962) have defended the World Cup, but this Argentina squad has the depth, mentality, and tactical intelligence to make it three. They are the team everyone else is chasing.
Argentina are in Group J with Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. It is widely regarded as one of the most favorable draws in the tournament, and the defending champions are expected to advance comfortably.
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