The journey for the 2022 World Cup champions kicks off now.
Argentina, who secured their third World Cup title, is looking to keep their top-ranking status this year and aim for another victory. This could result in some historic moments for the team.
As Lionel Messi steps on the field against Algeria today, he will mark a milestone as the first player ever to participate in six World Cups. Despite some lingering injury concerns, it seems he will be ready to compete in tonight’s match.
Algeria is making its return to the World Cup after missing the last two tournaments. The team has shown impressive form, netting 24 goals during qualifying, making it the second-highest tally from any African squad.
Argentina vs. Algeria: Key details
- What: 2026 FIFA World Cup, Group Stage
- When: June 16th, 9 PM Eastern Time
- Where: GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City, Missouri)
- Channel: FOX (English), Telemundo (Spanish)
- Streaming: DIRECTV (trial available)
Here’s what to keep in mind for Argentina’s opening match in the 2026 World Cup.
Argentina vs Algeria Match Time
The match tonight (June 16) is expected to kick off at 9 PM ET.
Watching Argentina vs Algeria for Free
If you don’t have cable, you can check out a live TV streaming service for the World Cup.
DIRECTV is a reliable option for live sports streaming, currently offering a 5-day free trial. This can save you on your first month, and you’ll have access to more than 125 channels including FOX and Telemundo.
Argentina’s World Cup Schedule
| Date and Time | Opponent | TV Channels |
|---|---|---|
| June 16th 9 PM Eastern Time | Algeria | FOX |
| June 22nd 1:00 PM ET | Austria | FOX |
| June 27th 10 PM Eastern Time | Jordan | FOX |
Algeria’s World Cup Schedule
| Date and Time | Opponent | TV Channels |
|---|---|---|
| June 16th 3:00 PM ET | Argentina | FOX |
| June 22nd 11:00 PM (EST) | Jordan | FS1 |
| June 27th 10 PM Eastern Time | Austria | FS1 |
Argentina’s World Cup Squad
Goalkeepers:
- Juan Musso
- Geronimo Lulli
- Emiliano Martinez
Defenders:
- Nicholas Tagliafico
- Gonzalo Montiel
- Lisandro Martinez
- Cristian Romero
- Nicolas Otamendi
- Facundo Medina
- Nahuel Molina
Midfielders:
- Renandro Parade
- Rodrigo De Paul
- Valentin Barco
- Giovani Lo Celso
- Exequiel Palacios
- Thiago Almada
- Alexis Mac Allister
- Enzo Fernandez
Forwards:
- Julian Alvarez
- Lionel Messi (captain)
- Nico Gonzalez
- Giuliano Simeone
- Nico Pass
- Jose Manuel Lopez
- Lautaro Martinez
Algeria’s World Cup Squad
Goalkeepers:
- Melvin Mastill
- King Benbot
- Luca Zidane
Defenders:
- Aissa Mundy
- Achraf Abada
- Mohamed Amin Tougai
- Zinedine Belide
- Jawen Hajam
- Rayan Ait Nouri
- Rafic Bargari
- Ramy Bensebaini
- Samir Chaghi
Midfielders:
- Ramiz Zerluki
- Ousem Awal
- Fares Chaibi
- Hisham Boudaoui
- Nabil Bentaleb
- Ibrahim Maza
- Yassine Titraoui
Forwards:
- Riyad Mahrez (Captain)
- Amin Goiri
- Anis Hadji Musa
- Nadir Benbouari
- Mohamed Amoura
- Adil Brubina
- Fares Gegemis





