Argentina begin their title defence against Algeria with Messi set for a sixth World Cup

What happened

Defending champions Argentina begin their World Cup title defence against Algeria on Tuesday in Kansas City, opening their Group J campaign with Lionel Messi in line to make an unprecedented sixth World Cup appearance. Kick-off is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET, closing a marquee sixth day of the tournament.

Why it matters

The holders' entrance is among the headline moments of the group stage, and it doubles as another milestone for Messi, who became the first man to feature at six World Cups when his selection was confirmed. His availability is no longer in doubt after a hamstring problem in the build-up eased — he returned to score in Argentina's final tune-up — leaving the champions to start with their captain fit and firing.

Context

Argentina arrive as world champions, having won the 2022 final for the country's third title, and have based themselves in Kansas City for the tournament. Algeria, by contrast, are at their first World Cup since 2014, having qualified strongly by topping their African group. The opener also follows a sobering opening round for South America, with the continent's sides yet to register a win.

What to watch next

The immediate focus is how Messi is used — whether he starts and how long he plays — and whether Argentina can avoid the kind of slip that has caught out several favourites in their openers. Group J also features Austria and Jordan, while the day's other standout fixture sees France open against Senegal, framing how the latecomers settle into the tournament.