World Cup 2026: Algeria vs Argentina Tips, Odds & Prediction

* Odds from Betway, correct at time of writing.

Argentina begin the defence of their world title against Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, with kickoff at 03:00 CAT on Wednesday, June 17. Lionel Scaloni brings with him a full strength squad led by Lionel Messi, who looks set for one final World Cup, while Vladimir Petkovic's Algeria arrive in form after thrashing Guatemala and beating the Netherlands in June. I expect the reigning champs to control this Group J opener, but Algeria carry a counter attacking threat that demands respect. For all our World Cup betting tips, head to our dedicated section.

Algeria

Algeria are making their first World Cup appearance since 2014 and from my point of view Petkovic has built a side that can hurt anyone on the break. Riyad Mahrez remains the creative heartbeat at 35, with Mohamed Amoura's pace and Rayan Ait-Nouri's overlapping runs giving them genuine width. Amoura is fit and scoring freely after netting in the qualifying clincher, and the squad arrives with no fresh injury concerns. My read is that Algeria will sit deep and trust their threats up front to punish any Argentine complacency.

Predicted Lineup: Zidane; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Ait-Nouri; Boudaoui, Chaibi; Mahrez, Aouar, Amoura; Gouiri.

Argentina

Argentina look in ominous form and while Algeria have their share of talented players, in my opinion the gap in quality here is significant. Scaloni eased through preparation with a 3-0 win over Iceland and a 2-0 win over Honduras, and his squad is at full strength with no injury worries. Messi will pull the strings behind Lautaro Martinez, who finished as Serie A's top scorer this season, while Rodrigo de Paul and Alexis Mac Allister give the midfield control and bite. I expect the world champions to dominate possession and create the better chances throughout.

Predicted Lineup: Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Tagliafico; De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Mac Allister; Messi, Alvarez, Almada.

The holders have too much quality across the pitch and I expect them to build a lead and then manage the game in the Kansas City heat. Algeria will threaten on the counter but I cannot see them keeping Messi and Lautaro Martinez quiet for ninety minutes. My forecast: Algeria 0 Argentina 2.

BTTS: No (1.60)

I am backing BTTS: No and my read on this is that Argentina's defence, marshalled by Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez, will keep a clean sheet against a side that often goes long spells without a goal. Algeria scored heavily against weaker opposition but Argentina are a different proposition entirely. At 1.60 this is the soundest piece of value on the board.