Argentina enter Group J as clear favourites. The defending champions are widely expected to progress from the group with relative ease. History, however, serves as a reminder that World Cups rarely follow scripts. Just four years ago, Argentina began their title-winning campaign with a stunning defeat to Saudi Arabia before regrouping in magnificent fashion to lift the trophy in Qatar.
This time around, Lionel Scaloni’s side looks far more settled. While Argentina are strong contenders to top the group, the real intrigue lies in the race behind them. Austria, Algeria and Jordan will all believe they have a chance to advance, especially with eight best third-placed teams qualifying for the next round in the expanded format.
Argentina
Fixtures
• June 16: Argentina vs Algeria — Kansas City Stadium (6:30 AM IST)
• June 22: Argentina vs Austria — Dallas Stadium, Arlington (10:30 PM IST)
• June 27: Jordan vs Argentina — Dallas Stadium, Arlington (7:30 AM IST)
Previous best
Champions in 1978, 1986 and 2022
How they qualified
Argentina topped the CONMEBOL round-robin qualifiers, showing consistency and control throughout the campaign.
Key player
All eyes will once again be on Lionel Messi. While questions remain about how he matches up against elite opposition after moving to Major League Soccer with Inter Miami, his influence on the international stage remains unquestionable.
Coaching credentials
Lionel Scaloni has only strengthened his reputation since guiding Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022. The team has continued to show cohesion and tactical clarity in qualifiers and friendlies.
Likely breakthrough star
Argentina’s next breakthrough star for the 2026 World Cup is likely Franco Mastantuono. His audacious dribbling and attacking flair make him the primary young talent poised to step into a crucial forward role.
Realistic expectations
Argentina are strong contenders to reach the final. Anything less than a deep run would be a surprise.
Algeria
Fixtures
• June 16: Algeria vs Argentina — Kansas City Stadium (6:30 AM IST)
• June 22: Algeria vs Jordan — Santa Clara Stadium, California (8:30 AM IST)
• June 27: Algeria vs Austria — Kansas City Stadium (7:30 AM IST)
Previous best
Round of 16 in 2014
How they qualified
Algeria finished top of their CAF qualifying group, remaining unbeaten and showing defensive solidity.
Key player
Captain Riyad Mahrez remains the creative heartbeat, offering experience, vision and set-piece quality.
Coaching credentials
Madjid Bougherra, a former Algeria captain, led the country to the 2021 FIFA Arab Cup title and brings tournament experience.
Likely breakthrough star
Mohamed Amoura, in strong club form with Wolfsburg, could emerge as a key attacking force.
Realistic expectations
With the squad they possess, Algeria should be capable of advancing from the group.
Austria
Fixtures
• June 17: Austria vs Jordan — Santa Clara Stadium, California (9:30 AM IST)
• June 22: Austria vs Argentina — Dallas Stadium, Arlington (10:30 PM IST)
• June 27: Austria vs Algeria — Kansas City Stadium (7:30 AM IST)
Previous best
Third place in 1954
How they qualified
Austria topped their UEFA qualifying group with an impressive, disciplined campaign.
Key player
Captain David Alaba remains central to Austria’s ambitions, supported by Marcel Sabitzer and veteran striker Marko Arnautović.
Coaching credentials
Ralf Rangnick’s high-intensity pressing system gives Austria the ability to trouble stronger sides.
Likely breakthrough star
Christoph Baumgartner’s energy and attacking instincts could earn him global recognition.
Realistic expectations
Austria will aim for the knockout rounds, with a quarter-final run considered an overachievement.
Jordan
Fixtures
• June 17: Jordan vs Austria — Santa Clara Stadium, California (9:30 AM IST)
• June 22: Jordan vs Algeria — Santa Clara Stadium, California (8:30 AM IST)
• June 27: Jordan vs Argentina — Dallas Stadium, Arlington (7:30 AM IST)
How they qualified
Jordan reached the World Cup for the first time after finishing runners-up in their AFC group.
Player to watch
Musa Al-Taamari leads the attack, supported by prolific striker Ali Olwan.
Realistic expectations
Jordan will look to compete bravely and gain valuable experience on the biggest stage.
