Ole unveils their predicted World Cup squad for Argentina vs Algeria

The match in Kansas City not only marks the start of the World Cup for Argentina, but also Leo's possible 200th appearance with the national team.

The big question on fans' minds just hours before the start of the 2026 World Cup seems to have been answered: yes, Lionel Messi will start for Argentina against Algeria . The Albiceleste captain has overcome the physical discomfort that raised some concerns during the preparations, and all indications are that he will start in the first match of Group J.

Will Lionel Messi play in Argentina vs. Algeria?

The match will be played this Tuesday, June 16th , in Kansas City and will mark the start of Lionel Scaloni 's team's title defense . It will also be a special night for Messi, as he will reach 200 international appearances for the national team , a new milestone in a career full of records.

Although the coaching staff has had to contend with some absences and fitness concerns in recent weeks , reports from the training camp agree that the Inter Miami star will lead the Argentine attack from the first minute . Even international media outlets specializing in World Cup coverage include him as a guaranteed starter against the African team.

The possible lineup for Argentina vs. Algeria

Emiliano Martínez ; Nahuel Molina , Cristian Romero , Lisandro Martínez , Facundo Medina ; Rodrigo De Paul , Alexis Mac Allister , Enzo Fernández ; Thiago Almada , Lautaro Martínez and Lionel Messi .

The unknowns that Scaloni still has to deal with

The first piece of good news comes from the goalkeeper position: all indications are that Emiliano Martínez has overcome his lingering physical discomfort and will be in charge of defending Argentina's goal from the opening match of the World Cup. The main doubts lie at full-back. On the right, the competition remains open between Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel , two players with the full confidence of the coaching staff who could even share playing time during the match. On the left, meanwhile, the decision will depend on how the central defense is ultimately formed .

One of the options Scaloni is considering is keeping Facundo Medina at left-back . However, there's also the possibility that Lisandro Martínez could play in that position . In that scenario, the Manchester United defender would give up his place in the back line, allowing Cristian Romero to partner Nicolás Otamendi in central defense.

From midfield forward, the picture seems much clearer. Rodrigo De Paul , Enzo Fernández , and Alexis Mac Allister would form the midfield trio, while Thiago Almada would have the freedom to link up with Messi behind Lautaro Martínez , the team's main attacking threat.

The variant with a back three

Beyond the traditional 4-3-3 , Scaloni also considered an alternative with three central defenders during training . In that system, Romero, Lisandro Martínez, and Otamendi would form the back line , with Almada or Nico González occupying the left flank and Giuliano Simeone covering the entire right wing .

The rest of the team would remain unchanged, with De Paul, Enzo, and Mac Allister in midfield, and the attacking duo of Messi and Lautaro Martínez. The final tactical tests and set-piece drills scheduled for Monday will be crucial in clearing up any remaining doubts and confirming the starting eleven for Argentina's opening match against Algeria.