Messi and Argentina Begin 2026 World Cup Defence Against Algeria
Lionel Messi is set to begin Argentina’s 2026 World Cup title defence against Algeria tonight, with the holders opening Group J in Kansas City.
Messi’s title defence starts on home territory
The Inter Miami forward is preparing for a World Cup staged across the United States, Mexico and Canada, giving him the chance to pursue another international prize in the country where he plays his club football.
Argentina have been drawn with Algeria, Austria and Jordan in Group J. Their first two fixtures are in the United States’ Central time zone, with the final group game also taking place at Dallas Stadium in Arlington.
- Argentina face Algeria on June 16 at Kansas City Stadium, kicking off at 8pm CDT.
- The champions meet Austria in Arlington on June 22, with a midday CDT start.
- Jordan provide Argentina’s final group-stage opposition on June 27, starting at 9pm CDT in Arlington.
Argentina’s Group J schedule
| Fixture | Date | Venue | Local kickoff | UK time (BST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Argentina vs Algeria | June 16 | Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City | 8pm CDT | 2am, June 17 |
| Argentina vs Austria | June 22 | Dallas Stadium, Arlington | 12pm CDT | 6pm |
| Jordan vs Argentina | June 27 | Dallas Stadium, Arlington | 9pm CDT | 3am, June 28 |
Broadcast routes for Argentina supporters
FOX Sports holds the English-language rights in the United States, with matches carried across FOX and its cable sports coverage. Spanish-language coverage of all 104 tournament games is available through NBCUniversal’s network group.
Viewers without a pay-TV package can receive both FOX and Telemundo free through an over-the-air digital antenna. A standard antenna, generally priced between $15 and $30, can deliver the local broadcasts without a cable subscription or internet connection.
- FOX and Telemundo offer the free broadcast option for viewers using an antenna.
- Fox One carries English coverage for $19.99 per month and includes a trial period.
- Peacock Premium provides Spanish commentary at $10.99 per month, without a free trial.
- Fubo and DirecTV Stream offer both language options, with plans beginning at roughly $50 and five-day trials.
What happens next
Messi’s immediate focus is Algeria in Kansas City. Argentina then have six days before facing Austria, while the June 27 meeting with Jordan will determine how the holders finish their Group J campaign.
