World Cup Group J Finale: Austria and Algeria Battle for Second Place
Austria require only a draw against Algeria to secure second place in Group J, while already-qualified Argentina prepare to rotate their squad against eliminated Jordan.
Argentina
2026 World Cup: Predicted Lineups Revealed for the Round of 32
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup heads into the Round of 32, we look at the predicted lineups for key contenders, including African giants and global superstars.
Messi becomes World Cup’s all-time top scorer as France beat Iraq
Lionel Messi has become the World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer after netting all five of Argentina’s goals in the tournament so far. France overcame severe weather delays to beat Iraq 3-0 in Philadelphia as the group stage intensifies.
Messi breaks World Cup scoring record as Argentina defeat Austria
Lionel Messi became the tournament’s all-time leading scorer with his 17th and 18th goals in a 2-0 victory over Austria, securing Argentina’s place in the last 32.
Messi breaks World Cup scoring record with brace against Austria
Lionel Messi became the tournament’s all-time leading scorer with 18 goals after netting twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria, despite missing an early penalty.
Argentina 3-0 Algeria Analysis: Messi’s Hat-Trick, 200th Cap and a Perfect Opening Statement
Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in their 2026 World Cup Group J opener on June 16 at Kansas City Stadium, with Lionel Messi scoring a hat-trick in his historic 200th international cap to equal Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup goalscoring record of 16 goals, supported by dominant midfield control from Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández that prevented Algeria from converting early energy into sustained attacking threats.
Messi Hat-Trick Equals World Cup Record as Argentina Crush Algeria in Opener
Lionel Messi delivered a stunning hat-trick to equal the all-time World Cup scoring record as Argentina began their campaign with a dominant victory over Algeria in Kansas City.
Argentina vs Algeria Prediction and Analysis: Messi’s Milestone Meets Mahrez’s Counterattacking Threat
Argentina face Algeria at 04:00 East Africa Time on 17 June 2026 at Kansas City Stadium in a Group J opener that pits the defending champions against returning challengers. Lionel Messi could mark his 200th international appearance if selected, though his recent muscle recovery means his participation duration remains uncertain. Algeria counter with the pace of Mohamed Amoura and the creativity of Riyad Mahrez, yet Argentina’s midfield control through Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernandez suggests a 2-0 victory for the South Americans based on superior possession management and counterpressing intensity.
Argentina Squad for World Cup 2026
Argentina will defend their FIFA World Cup crown with a 26-man squad selected by coach Lionel Scaloni and headlined by captain Lionel Messi. The roster blends experienced 2022 Qatar winners including Emiliano Martinez, Cristian Romero, and Rodrigo De Paul with emerging talents such as Valentin Barco, Nicolas Paz, and Giuliano Simeone. Kenyan viewers can track La Albiceleste’s progress through the expanded 48-team tournament using East Africa Time (EAT, UTC+3) fixtures across the three host nations of Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Find Your 2026 World Cup Team: Take Our Quiz Ahead of Kick-off
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on 11 June. Take our quiz to find your perfect team to support, from champions Argentina to debutants Uzbekistan.