Argentina begins its FIFA World Cup 2026 title defense on Tuesday when it faces Algeria in a Group J showdown. The defending world champions enter the tournament among the favorites to lift the trophy once again, while Algeria will be looking to pull off one of the biggest upsets of the opening round. Argentina enters Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.
Here is everything you need to know to watch.
The match will air nationally on:
Fans can also stream the match through participating streaming providers.
If you don’t have cable, one of the easiest ways to watch the match is through a live TV streaming service.
👉 Watch Argentina vs Algeria live on Fubo
Fubo carries FOX and provides extensive FIFA World Cup coverage throughout the tournament. New subscribers may also be eligible for a free trial.
Argentina enters the tournament as the defending World Cup champion and remains one of the favorites to win the competition. Lionel Scaloni’s squad knows every opponent will view a match against them as a statement opportunity.
Algeria arrives with confidence and belief despite being considered the underdog. Head coach Vladimir Petkovic has emphasized that opening matches can produce surprises, and Algeria will look to make life difficult for one of the tournament favorites.
At 38 years old, Lionel Messi remains one of the biggest attractions in the tournament. Every World Cup appearance carries added significance as fans continue to watch one of soccer’s all-time greats on the sport’s biggest stage.
Argentina enters the match with more depth, experience, and proven tournament success. Algeria has enough quality to remain competitive, but Argentina should control possession and create the better scoring opportunities throughout the match.
Prediction: Argentina 3, Algeria 1
This is one of the most anticipated matches of the opening round because it marks the beginning of Argentina’s World Cup title defense. Algeria has the talent to test the reigning champions, but the defending champions enter with experience, elite attacking talent, and the expectations that come with being one of the favorites to win the tournament. A strong opening performance would immediately put Argentina in control of Group J and build momentum for the matches ahead.
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