New Delhi: Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Kylian Mbappe’s France, the finalists of the dramatic 2022 FIFA World Cup, begin their 2026 campaigns on Tuesday as two of the leading contenders for the title.
Defending champions Argentina face Algeria in Kansas City, with much of the spotlight once again on Messi, who is set to feature in his sixth World Cup. The 38-year-old had raised fitness concerns after suffering a hamstring injury while playing for Inter Miami in May, but coach Lionel Scaloni said the captain is ready to go.
“Everyone wants to see him out on the pitch, not just Argentinians, because of the impact he has on people,” Scaloni said. “He has always been crucial for us and now he will be even more so. He looks good.”
Messi eased concerns over his fitness by scoring after coming off the bench in a warm-up match against Iceland last week.
France, meanwhile, begin their campaign against Senegal in New Jersey. Led by Mbappe, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele and winger Michael Olise, Didier Deschamps’ side will be eager to avoid a repeat of their shock opening defeat to Senegal at the 2002 World Cup.
“The first match is very important but it’s not decisive. Starting with a win is always the objective,” Deschamps said, while cautioning that the emotional pressure of a World Cup opener could affect players.
Elsewhere, Erling Haaland is set to make his World Cup debut when Norway face Iraq. The Manchester City striker has been in prolific form, scoring 55 goals in 50 appearances for his country.
The opening week of the tournament has already thrown up surprises, with Spain held to a goalless draw by World Cup debutants Cape Verde, while Belgium, Iran and Uruguay were all forced to settle for draws in their opening matches.
