Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Kylian Mbappe’s France, the teams that competed in an exhilarating World Cup final four years ago, kick off their 2026 tournament journey on Tuesday.
Argentina, the victors of that memorable match in Doha through a penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw in extra time, will face Algeria in Kansas City.
Messi is gearing up for his sixth World Cup appearance, with Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni expressing confidence in the 38-year-old star’s readiness despite a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Inter Miami in late May.
“Everyone eagerly anticipates seeing him on the field, not just Argentinians, due to the profound impact he has on people,” Scaloni stated during his pre-match press conference. “He has always been pivotal for us, and now even more so. He is in good form.”
Messi showcased his fitness by scoring as a substitute in a warm-up match against Iceland last week, earning praise from defender Nicolas Otamendi, who described him as a fiercely competitive player who keeps teammates on their toes.
France, with a formidable attacking lineup including Mbappe, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, and speedy winger Michael Olise, will start their campaign against Senegal in New Jersey.
The French squad aims to avoid a repeat of their defeat to Senegal in the opening match of the 2002 World Cup in South Korea, which led to their premature exit from the group stage as reigning champions.
“The first match holds significance, but it is not definitive. Securing a victory in a four-team group is ideal and always the goal,” emphasized France coach Didier Deschamps. “However, the emotional aspect of the game is immeasurable. Some players may feel the pressure from the match environment.”
France has made it to the final in four of the last seven World Cups, with two victories and two losses in penalty shootouts.
Erling Haaland will mark his World Cup debut for Norway against Iraq as his country qualifies for the first time since 1998.
Having recently secured the Premier League’s top scorer title for the third time in four seasons with Manchester City and boasting an impressive record of 55 goals in 50 national team appearances, Haaland is expected to make a significant impact.
Norway coach Stale Solbakken, who was part of the squad as a midfielder during Norway’s last World Cup appearance in France, is optimistic about Haaland’s contribution.
Iraq’s coach Graham Arnold believes his team has the potential to cause an upset.
“We need to perform at our best and aim to surprise the world,” Arnold stated confidently. “Qualification is just the beginning. I am aiming for more. We have everything to gain and nothing to lose.”