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Tribunlampung.co.id, Bandar Lampung – The opening match of Group J in the 2026 FIFA World Cup will see defending champions Argentina face Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, on Wednesday (17 June 2026) at 08:00 WIB. The clash is expected to unfold with high intensity.

Also read: MCI Lampung Predicts Intense World Cup Match: Portugal to Win, Argentina Held to a Draw

The Albiceleste squad, still led by superstar Lionel Messi, are under pressure to prove their dominance from the very first match.

Argentina arrived in North America carrying the prestige of being the reigning 2022 champions. Under Lionel Scaloni’s guidance, the team also impressed in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, finishing top of the table with 38 points from 12 wins, 2 draws, and 4 losses.

Regional Coordinator of Manchester City Indonesia (MCI) Lampung, Kadri, believes this opening match is crucial for La Albiceleste to reaffirm their status as strong title contenders.

“Argentina still have a solid team foundation. Moreover, this tournament could be Lionel Messi’s final World Cup appearance, so the entire squad will be highly motivated to deliver their best and defend the title,” said Kadri on Tuesday (16 June 2026).

The Desert Foxes Pose a Real Threat

However, Algeria are not expected to be an easy opponent. Nicknamed The Desert Foxes, the team comes into the 2026 World Cup with an impressive record throughout the qualification phase.

Vladimir Petkovic’s men secured their place in the finals after topping Group G of the CAF (Africa) qualifiers. Their strength was evident as they suffered only one defeat in ten qualifying matches.

Algeria now rely on a blend of experienced veterans and emerging young talents playing in Europe. Former Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez is expected to be the creative heartbeat of the team and a potential game-changer on the field.

“Mahrez has the mentality of a champion and vast experience at the highest level in Europe. The balance in Algeria’s squad could trouble Argentina’s defensive line. I believe it will be an open match with goals coming from both sides,” Kadri added.

Messi Set for Historic 200th International Appearance

According to BangkaPos.com, both teams head into this fixture full of confidence after winning their last two friendly matches.

Algeria claimed victories against powerhouses the Netherlands and Bolivia, while Argentina overcame Honduras and Iceland.

Historically, this clash against Algeria will mark a new milestone in world football. It will be Lionel Messi’s 200th official appearance for Argentina’s senior national team.

The player, famously known as “La Pulga,” currently holds the record as Argentina’s all-time top scorer with 117 goals from 199 appearances.

In World Cup competition alone, Messi has netted 13 goals across five editions and now needs just four more to surpass Germany legend Miroslav Klose as the tournament’s all-time leading scorer.

“It’s not just Argentinians, but everyone on this planet who wants to see him play,” said Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni during the pre-match press conference on Tuesday (16 June 2026), as quoted by the Associated Press.

“Everyone wants to watch him take the field, not just Argentina’s fans. Messi has a magnetic appeal that captivates football supporters all over the world,” Scaloni concluded.

Probable Line-ups

Argentina’s head coach Lionel Scaloni faces no major fitness concerns for this match. Only left-back Nicolas Tagliafico is confirmed to miss out through injury, with young star Valentin Barco expected to fill his place.

On the other hand, the Desert Foxes under Vladimir Petkovic are likely to be without their first-choice left-back Ramy Bensebaini (Borussia Dortmund) due to an ankle injury. Nevertheless, Algeria remain dangerous with key players such as Riyad Mahrez and prolific striker Mohammed Amoura in the lineup.

Argentina (4-4-2): E. Martinez; Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Valentin Barco; Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Thiago Almada; Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez.

Coach: Lionel Scaloni.

Algeria (4-3-3): Zidane; Belghali, Aissa Mandi, Ramy Bensebaini, Rayyan Ait-Nouri; Nabil Bentaleb, Houssem Aouar, Maza; Riyad Mahrez, Amine Gouiri, Mohammed Amoura.

Coach: Vladimir Petkovic.