World Cup Preview: Argentina
Argentina arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup carrying the weight of expectation that comes with being defending champions. Since lifting the trophy in Qatar in 2022, the Albiceleste have continued to demonstrate why they are regarded as one of the strongest national teams in the world. With a settled squad, a proven manager and Lionel Messi still pulling the strings, Argentina will be targeting a fourth World Cup triumph.
Fixtures (UK time)
Algeria, June 17, 2am
Austria, June 22, 6pm
Jordan, June 28, 3am
How They Qualified
Argentina once again navigated the gruelling CONMEBOL qualification campaign with impressive authority. The world champions produced a series of strong performances against South America’s elite nations to finish top by nine points. Their blend of defensive resilience, midfield control and attacking quality ensured qualification was never seriously in doubt, underlining their status as one of the favourites heading into the tournament.
The Manager
Lionel Scaloni has overseen one of the most successful periods in Argentine football history. After taking charge in 2018, the former defender transformed the national team from a side struggling for consistency into world champions. Scaloni guided Argentina to Copa America glory in 2021, World Cup success in 2022 and another Copa America title in 2024. His calm leadership, tactical flexibility and ability to build a strong collective spirit have been central to Argentina’s resurgence. Still only in his late forties, he is already among the most successful managers the country has ever produced.
The Star
Lionel Messi needs little introduction. Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history, the forward finally completed his international trophy collection by winning the Copa America in 2021 before leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022. Across an extraordinary career with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami, Messi has won countless individual and team honours, including a record eight Ballon d’Or awards. With 199 international appearances and 117 goals (both Argentina records) for his country, he remains the player every opponent fears most.
The Familiar Face
Emiliano Martinez has become one of the Premier League’s most recognisable goalkeepers through his performances for Aston Villa. After spending much of his early career at Arsenal, Martinez established himself as Villa’s number one and developed into one of the world’s leading shot-stoppers. His heroic displays during Argentina’s victorious 2022 World Cup campaign, particularly in penalty shootouts, elevated him to national icon status. The goalkeeper’s confidence, personality and knack for producing decisive saves have made him a favourite among Argentine supporters and a player opponents love to hate.
Did you know?
Argentina’s blue and white stripes were inspired by the country’s flag, but the design was reportedly chosen after a team captain looked up and suggested using the colours of the sky and clouds above Buenos Aires.
The Prediction
Winners
Few teams arrive in North America with a stronger combination of quality, experience and winning mentality than Argentina. Scaloni has built a squad that knows exactly what it takes to succeed at major tournaments, while Messi continues to provide moments of brilliance even in the latter stages of his career. The Albiceleste should progress comfortably from Group J and will expect to challenge deep into the knockout rounds. France, Spain and Brazil all possess the quality to stop them, but Argentina deserve their status as one of the leading favourites to lift the trophy once again.
Cover Photo: FIFA World Cup 2014 by Mariya Butd used under license by CC BY 2.0.
