Argentina begin the defense of their World Cup crown on Tuesday in Kansas City, opening Group J against Algeria in a matchup that brings together established champions and a resurgent African side aiming to reassert itself on the global stage.
For Argentina, the mission is historic. Only Italy and Brazil have ever won back-to-back World Cups, and Lionel Scaloni’s squad arrive in North America determined to push into that rare territory. The margin for error is thin from the opening whistle, even for reigning champions.
Their qualification campaign set a firm foundation. Argentina finished top of CONMEBOL for the first time since 2014, collecting 38 points from 18 matches in a campaign defined by control and balance. A 4-1 dismantling of Brazil in Buenos Aires stood as the defining statement, underlining a side that combined tactical discipline with cutting edge in attack.
Lionel Messi once again shaped the campaign, finishing as top scorer with eight goals while steering a group built around experience and cohesion. From there, momentum only grew. Argentina closed their preparations with seven straight friendly wins, scoring 21 goals and conceding just once, a run that reinforced their status as one of the most settled squads in the tournament.
