Predictions about who will be the next world champion often miss the mark. The pressure at this tournament is as intense as it gets for any player, and the margins are so fine that even a powerhouse can be knocked out.

Argentina launches its FIFA World Cup title defense in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and debutant Jordan. Lionel Messi leads Scaloni’s squad, while Mahrez, Alaba, and Al-Tamari headline their teams in a group mixing experience,

Argentina secured a slender 1-0 win over struggling Chile in Matchday 15 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 CONMEBOL Qualifiers on Thursday, 5 June, with Julian Alvarez scoring early in the 16th minute to keep La Albiceleste at the top of the standings.

Argentina topped the ​​CONMEBOL qualification group, finishing nine points clear of second-placed Ecuador. It has been one of the most fruitful periods in the nation’s history, with their 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar sandwiched in between back-to-back Copa America titles.

Argentina superstar Lionel Messi will miss their 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to an adductor injury. The 37-year-old Lionel Messi was not included in Argentina's 25-member squad announced on Monday by coach Lionel Scaloni.

Argentina solidified their dominance in South American football with a 1-0 victory over Chile in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, courtesy of Julian Alvarez's goal. This win extends Argentina's lead in the standings,

Lionel Messi is preparing for what could be his final World Cup with Argentina, aiming to retain the trophy he won in Qatar in 2022.