WELCOME TO ARROWHEAD STADIUM!!! The iconic home of the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs is the site of the opening match of Group J as defending champions Argentina begin their World Cup 2026 journey against Algeria. Lionel Messi begins his last World Cup looking for a strong start to the Albiceleste’s defense of the 2022 title, but it won’t be easy against a tough and talented Algerian side. This should be all kinds of fun, and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Vamos!
LINEUPS
ARGENTINA
Starting XI: Martínez; Montiel, Romero, Lisandro, Medina; De Paul, Mac Allister, Enzo; Messi, Lautaro, Almada (4-3-3)
Substitutes: Musso (GK), Rulli (GK), Otamendi, Senesi, Molina, Tagliafico, Paredes, Palacios, Barco, Lo Celso, Paz, Simeone, Nico, Alvarez, López
ALGERIA
Starting XI: Zidane; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Aït-Nouri; Boudaoui, Bentaleb; Hadj Moussa, Maza, Chaïbi; Gouri (4-2-3-1)
Substitutes: Mastil (GK), Benbot (GK), Abada, Hadjam, Tougai, Chergui, Belaïd, Aouar, Zerrouki, Titraoui, Boulbina, Ghedjemis, Amoura, Benbouali, Mahrez
MATCH INFO
Competition/Round: 2026 World Cup, Group J, Round 1
Date/Time: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, 9pm ET, 6pm PT (USA), 3am CET (Barcelona, Wednesday), 2am BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria, Wednesday), 6.30am IST (India, Wednesday)
Venue: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, United States
Referee: Szymon Marciniak (POL)
HOW TO WATCH
On TV: FOX (USA), ITV 1 (UK), United8 Sports 1 (India), SuperSport (Nigeria), others
Online: FuboTV (USA), ITVX (UK), ZEE5 (India), DAZN (Spain), others
Matchday Thread Rules
We don’t have a lot of rules here, but there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads:
Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, watch the swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another.
Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!
