As defending world champions, Argentina know that every opponent will be desperate to knock them out of the 2026 World Cup. Lionel Messi and company begin their campaign in Group J, and their chances of retaining the trophy may depend on their finishing position in the standings.

Lionel Messi is ready for his sixth World Cup .

Messi was not part of Argentina’s starting lineup when the team sheets were revealed at 7 p.m.