Argentina begin title defence against Algeria

World champions Argentina begin their title defence against Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. La Albiceleste opened their 2022 campaign with a shock defeat to Saudi Arabia on the way to the trophy; this time they are keen to avoid a similar setback.

Lionel Messi is set for his sixth and most likely final World Cup. After a strong qualifying campaign and impressive friendly form, Argentina are unlikely to be caught off guard again. Lionel Scaloni's side boast one of the most dangerous midfield-and-attack combinations in world soccer: Lautaro Martínez's finishing, Julián Álvarez's technique, the rise of Nico Paz, Enzo Fernández—who scored 15 for Chelsea last season—and Giuliano Simeone's direct running. And, of course, there is the Messi factor; the star who led Inter Miami to a first MLS Cup remains in form after a 43-goal season.

Argentina are impressive defensively too, conceding just once in their last seven matches. Cristian Romero has returned from injury and is expected to partner Nicolás Otamendi at centre-back, with Emiliano Martínez again in goal.

Algeria will not roll over. Riyad Mahrez's left foot can still unlock any defence, while in-form Amine Gouiri (four goals in his last four games), the between-the-lines creativity of Ibrahim Maza and the unpredictability of Anis Hadj Moussa out wide all carry a threat. Algeria scored 24 goals in qualifying, the second-highest tally of any African nation.

Scaloni is expected to manage Messi's workload carefully throughout the tournament, as the star only recently returned from a hamstring injury. SI.com's prediction favours Argentina (3-1), but it would be no surprise if Algeria find the scoresheet.

Predicted XIs
Argentina (4-3-3): E. Martínez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, De Paul, Fernández; Messi, L. Martínez, Almada
Algeria (4-2-3-1): Zidane; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Aït-Nouri; Boudaoui, Bentaleb; Mahrez, Maza, Chaïbi; Gouiri

Source: SI.com
Image: SI.com