Kansas City, June 15: Defending champions Argentina will begin their quest for a second successive FIFA World Cup title when they take on Algeria in their Group J opener on Wednesday.
Only Italy and Brazil have successfully retained the World Cup, and Lionel Scaloni’s side are aiming to join that elite company by lifting the trophy again in North America next month.Argentina enter the tournament in impressive form after topping the South American qualifying standings for the first time since 2014. Their campaign was highlighted by a memorable 4-1 victory over Brazil in Buenos Aires as they amassed 38 points from 18 matches.Captain Lionel Messi once again proved to be the driving force behind La Albiceleste, finishing as the top scorer in qualifying with eight goals.
, Scaloni’s men will be wary of underestimating their opponents, having famously lost to Saudi Arabia in their opening game at the 2022 World Cup before going on to win the title.Argentina and Algeria have met only once before, in a friendly at Camp Nou in June 2007, when Argentina prevailed 4-3 with Messi scoring his first international brace. (Agencies)
