World Cup openers have a way of setting the tone, and for Argentina, that memory still begins with the stunning 2022 defeat to Saudi Arabia. What came next, however, became one of the tournament’s great redemption stories, as La Albiceleste rallied to win the third World Cup in the country’s history and finally deliver Lionel Messi the one major title that had eluded him.
Now Argentina returns with a chance to achieve something no team has managed since Brazil in 1962: defend a World Cup crown. Brazil remains the last nation to win back-to-back titles, part of a dominant stretch in which it claimed three championships in four tournaments. The gap since then is a reminder of just how unforgiving the competition can be, even for the world’s best sides.
This campaign could also carry added significance for Messi. At 38, he may be appearing in his final World Cup, though his fitness remains a key storyline. The Argentine captain has played only 20 minutes since suffering a muscular overload against the Philadelphia Union. He did make a substitute appearance in Argentina’s friendly against Iceland, but with an opener against an Algeria side Argentina will still be expected to beat, coach Lionel Scaloni may choose a cautious approach with his star forward.
Keep up with the World Cup standings here!
How to watch Argentina vs. Algeria
Algeria, meanwhile, has embraced its time in Kansas City. The Desert Foxes have spent the buildup connecting with the local community, playing soccer with children and spending time with residents from nearby Lawrence. It is the kind of cultural exchange that gives the World Cup much of its spirit, even if it does not guarantee a result on the field.
Argentina vs. Algeria predicted starting lineups
Still, Algeria is not arriving simply to make up the numbers. With Riyad Mahrez leading the way and a capable supporting cast around him, the North African side has enough quality to believe it can be competitive. Argentina will be favored, but the World Cup has never lacked for surprises.
Luca Zidane, Rayan Ait Nouri, Ramy Bensebaini, Aissa Mandi, Achref Abada, Nabil Bentaleb, Hachim Boudaoui, Mohamed Amoura, Houssem Aouar, Riyad Mahrez, Amine Gouiri
Argentina vs. Algeria pick, prediction
Even if Messi doesn’t play, Argentina’s defense is a stout one no matter who is in the lineup. Scaloni has done a great job setting up a system where every player knows what is expected of them, and in a grueling tournament like the World Cup, that’s critical. Argentina 2, Algeria 0
Golazo 48 Nations: Follow the World Cup all summer long
Golazo 48 Nations is your all-access destination for the World Cup, with wall-to-wall coverage across the CBS Sports Golazo Network. From the first whistle to the final recap, the entire Golazo crew will guide fans through every moment of the tournament.
Each day begins with Morning Footy, setting the stage with the latest news, storylines, and previews ahead of kickoff. From there, Golazo Matchday and Golazo Matchnight deliver reaction and analysis as the action unfolds. Fans can also tune in for coverage of USMNT matches with the Call It What You Want team, as well as reaction to other marquee matchups.
The day wraps with Scoreline, a comprehensive nightly recap of every result, moment, and storyline from across the tournament. Altogether, the Golazo Network will deliver up to 12 hours of programming each matchday, available across the Golazo Network and its YouTube channel.
