Fit Messi Leads Calm Argentina in Opener vs Algeria

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni insists his squad is calm and injury-free ahead of their 2026 World Cup Group J opener against Algeria on Tuesday night.

Brushing off recent injury scares, Scaloni confirmed that captain Lionel Messi, striker Julián Álvarez, and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez are all fit to play. Messi has recovered from a mild hamstring strain, Álvarez has shaken off an ankle issue and Martínez is expected to start despite a fractured ring finger.

"Everyone wants to see Messi on the field. He excites everyone, not just Argentines," Scaloni told reporters on Monday. "He has always been monumental for us and now he will be even more. I see him well."

Scaloni noted that the only remaining injury concern is defender Nicolás Tagliafico, who is recovering from a calf issue and remains doubtful to start.

Despite entering the tournament as defending champions, Argentina remains cautious. Scaloni recalled his team's shock defeat to Saudi Arabia in their 2022 World Cup opener, warning his players not to underestimate an Algeria side managed by Vladimir Petkovic.

"They are a great team with quick forwards. We must be careful and respect them," Scaloni said, comparing Algeria's tactical style to Morocco's. "But from the last World Cup, we know the first game is important but not decisive. We have peace of mind."

Veteran centre-back Nicolás Otamendi echoed his manager’s cautious optimism. The 38-year-old, who recently signed with River Plate, emphasized the need for strict defensive organization.

"We know we are the champions everyone wants to beat," Otamendi said. "We have the example from Qatar. Any team can cause problems. We need to play our game and maintain a solid defensive structure."

Scaloni will finalize his starting XI following Monday's final training session, stressing that his priority is team balance rather than simply fielding the biggest names.

Argentina and Algeria headline Group J, which also features Austria and Jordan.