Argentina World Cup 2026 preview: Players to watch, group matches and squad | World Cup 2026 News | Al Jazeera

Defending champions Argentina aim for a historic back-to-back title, a feat not achieved since Brazil in 1962. Lionel Messi, now 39, plays in his sixth World Cup but his role has diminished due to age and a minor hamstring injury. The ageing squad will need to manage Messi's minutes carefully, while several promising young players were left at home. Argentina faces Algeria on June 16 in their opening match.