Argentina began their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a match against Algeria, marking the champions’ first competitive game since their 2022 victory. Head coach Lionel Scaloni has named Lionel Messi in the starting eleven. Argentina will employ a 4-3-3 formation for the match. Messi will play on the right wing, with Thiago Almada on the left and Lautaro Martínez leading the attack as the central striker. This game represents a key starting point for Argentina’s journey to qualify for the next World Cup. The match is being closely watched as fans anticipate Messi’s performance and Argentina’s overall strategy in the qualifying rounds.