Lionel Messi's Argentina are reportedly set to start a centre-back pairing of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez in their FIFA World Cup opening game against Algeria. The defending champions' debut game at the tournament will take place on June 16 at the Kansas City Stadium.
With hours remaining before the defending champions begin their campaign at the 2026 World Cup, all eyes will be on Lionel Scaloni to announce his starting XI against Algeria. Some big exclusions expected are those of Julian Alvarez and Leandro Paredes, who are available but are fresh after injuries. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi is expected to start for Argentina.
According to Argentine journalist Gaston Edul, Lionel Scaloni will go with the centre-back pairing of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez for the opener against Algeria. Romero was expected to be a regular starter for the side, although there were doubts about whether Nicolas Otamendi would be picked ahead of Lisandro Martinez.
While Otamendi has more experience at the highest stage, a fit Lisandro Martinez can be a game-changer for Argentina. The Manchester United star missed a few games due to injuries last season, but is now fit and available to help Lionel Messi defend his title at the FIFA World Cup.
Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni confirms Lionel Messi's availability for the FIFA World Cup opener against Algeria
Lionel Scaloni - Source: Getty
Lionel Scaloni - Source: Getty
In the pre-match press conference ahead of the FIFA World Cup opening game against Algeria, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed Lionel Messi's availability for the game. He said (via Albiceleste Talk):
"Leo Messi has always been there for us and has always been fundamental. Now he will be even more important, and he looks in great shape."
There were concerns about Messi's fitness, especially after he was subbed off earlier than usual in his last game for Inter Miami before the World Cup. However, it was later confirmed to be a precautionary measure. Messi also came off the bench in Argentina's pre-World Cup friendly against Iceland, scoring from the penalty spot.
As of now, Lionel Messi is fully fit and ready to start at the FIFA World Cup. This will be his sixth and possibly last World Cup. After his triumph in 2022 in Qatar, La Albiceleste continues to remain one of the favorites to win the tournament once again.
After the opening game against Algeria, Argentina will face Austria (June 22) and Jordan (June 27) in their next two group stage games.