Lionel Messi-led Argentina will begin its FIFA World Cup defence against Algeria in Group J. Austria and debutant Jordan complete the group. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal is placed in Group K along with Colombia, DR Congo and Uzbekistan. Perennial underachiever England under Harry Kane finds itself in a tricky Group L also featuring Croatia, Ghana and Panama.Group J (Argentina, Austria, Algeria, Jordan)No nation has successfully defended the FIFA World Cup since Brazil’s immortal side of 1962. Sixty-four years later, Argentina arrives in North America with a chance to break that jinx and etch its name alongside football’s most enduring dynasties.Lionel Scaloni’s men topped CONMEBOL qualifying to secure their place at the global showpiece. More importantly, they bring continuity, with as many as 17 members of the squad that conquered Qatar being picked. On paper, they possess one of the tournament’s most complete squads —balanced, battle-tested, and brimming with quality.Yet history has shown that defending a crown is often harder than winning it. Questions linger over whether Argentina can summon the same edge and hunger that drove it to glory four years ago.Scaloni has already cemented his place in Argentine football folklore, becoming the first coach to deliver both the World Cup (2022) and the Copa America (2021 and 2024). But La Albiceleste’s destiny may ultimately rest with the other Lionel. At 38, Messi remains the heartbeat of the team — his presence alone can change the complexion of a match, and the hopes of a football-mad nation rest on his shoulders.Its rivals are anything but supporting actors. Austria returns to football’s grandest stage for the first time since 1998. Under Ralf Rangnick, the Austrians have become one of Europe’s most relentless sides, capable of overwhelming even elite opponents with their pressing and organisation. Having guided them to the round of 16 at Euro 2024, Rangnick will believe another knockout appearance is well within reach.Algeria arrives armed with flair, pace, and devastating efficiency in transition. Mohamed Amoura announced himself during qualifying with 10 goals — more than any African player — and the 26-year-old will spearhead its bid to upset the established order alongside captain Riyad Mahrez.While debutants are often dismissed as outsiders, Jordan has earned its place on merit, scoring a national record 32 goals during qualification and remaining unbeaten away from home. Unburdened by expectation, it could prove far more dangerous than its inexperience suggests.Best finish: Argentina: Champion (1978, 1986, 2022); Austria: Third place (1954); Algeria: Round of 16 (2014); Jordan: Debutant.Group K (Portugal, Colombia, DR Congo, Uzbekistan)The World Cup has always been a stage where individual brilliance collides with collective ambition, and Group K offers a compelling snapshot of that eternal tension.Portugal arrives armed with experience, depth and no shortage of star power under Roberto Martinez. Built around possession control and creative dominance through central areas, Os Navegadores will expect nothing less than the top spot.