Argentina's Possible Lineup to Face Algeria at the FIFA World Cup 2026

All signs point to Lionel Messi starting in Argentina's World Cup opener as he closes in on another historic milestone with the national team.

Messi expected to start in Argentina's World Cup opener

The Argentina national team is ready to begin the defense of its crown at the 2026 FIFA World Cup when it takes on Algeria in the opening match of Group J.

The biggest question surrounding the Albiceleste appears to have been answered. After several weeks of physical concerns and carefully managed training sessions, all indications suggest that Lionel Messi will be in the starting lineup for Argentina's World Cup debut.

The match could also become another historic night for the Argentine captain, who is expected to make his 200th international appearance, adding yet another milestone to one of the greatest careers in football history.

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Argentina begins its title defense

Head coach Lionel Scaloni arrives in the United States as the reigning world champion after leading Argentina to glory at Qatar 2022.

While the coaching staff has had to manage a few injury concerns during the preparation phase, the overall mood within the camp remains positive and most of the squad's key players are available for the opener against the African side.

With stars such as Messi, Lautaro Martínez, Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister, Argentina once again enters the tournament as one of the leading contenders for the title.

Argentina's possible lineup

Everything points to Scaloni relying on a formation very similar to the one that brought success during the previous World Cup cycle.

Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martínez

Defenders: Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Facundo Medina

Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister

Forwards: Thiago Almada, Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez

The remaining questions for Scaloni

Although the core of the lineup appears settled, there are still a few decisions to be made in defense.

On the right side, Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel continue to compete for a starting role. Meanwhile, the left-back position remains one of the key tactical decisions Scaloni must finalize before kickoff.

One option is to keep Facundo Medina at left-back. Another possibility would see Lisandro Martínez move out wide, allowing Nicolás Otamendi to partner Cristian Romero in central defense.

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The three-man defense alternative

During recent training sessions, Argentina has also experimented with a three-center-back system.

In that setup, Romero, Lisandro Martínez, and Otamendi would form the back line, while Giuliano Simeone would operate as a wing-back on the right and either Thiago Almada or Nicolás González would provide width on the left.

Even so, all signs suggest that Scaloni will stick with his traditional formation for Argentina's opening match against Algeria.