Messi, Argentina vs. Algeria Top Storylines, Odds, Live Stream for World Cup 2026

Lionel Messi and Argentina begin their World Cup title defense on Tuesday against Algeria.

Messi and Co. will try to avoid the same fate they experienced in their World Cup opener four years ago.

A stunning loss to Saudi Arabia turned out to be the only slip-up on the run to the title in Qatar.

A better start is expected in Kansas City against an Algeria side that doesn't possess the same attacking firepower that Argentina does.

Argentina vs. Algeria Info

Date: Tuesday, June 16

Start Time: 9 p.m. ET

TV: Fox

Live Stream: Fox One or Fox Sports app

Odds (via FanDuel Sportsbook): Argentina (-270; bet $270 to win $100); Algeria (+800; bet $100 to win $800); Draw (+360)

The goal for Argentina on Tuesday is to avoid an early stumble, like it experienced four years ago.

The group-opening loss to Saudi Arabia was one of the more stunning group-stage results we've seen in quite some time on the World Cup stage.

Argentina rebounded from that loss to win six straight matches and claim the World Cup.

There's less pressure on Messi and Co. in the buildup to the 2026 World Cup because they finally delivered a title in the Messi era.

That may allow the Albiceleste to play with more freedom from the start of the tournament, instead of press for results.

Lionel Scaloni brought an experienced side to the World Cup. Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez are the primary attackers alongside Messi. They have 51 goals in 128 international appearances between them.

The back line and defense are loaded with players who were on the 2022 World Cup roster. There weren't too many changes made from the squad that entered Qatar four years ago.

The consistency and familiarity within the team should also allow Argentina to get off to a fast start in Kansas City.

Algeria is quite the large underdog in the Group J contest for a reason. After all, the African side has one knockout-round appearance in four previous World Cup appearances.

Riyad Mahrez, the former Manchester City and Leicester City star, is the player to watch in the Algerian squad. He is second in Algeria history in appearances (116) and goals (38).

Manchester City's Rayan Ait-Nouri, Borussia Dortmund's Ramy Bensebaini and Marseille's Amine Gouiri are the other notable names in the Algeria squad.

A win is the expectation for Argentina, but a loss doesn't put them in as much jeopardy as it would've four years ago because eight third-place teams make it out of the group stage as well.

There is room for error, but Argentina might not need that if it enforces its will over Algeria from the start.

A win and a strong performance from Messi could mark the start of a perfect run through Group J for Argentina.