Messi, Alvarez & Martinez - Argentina trio fit for Algeria clash in FIFA World Cup 2026
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
Lionel Messi will play against Algeria tonight.
Argentina national team manager Lionel Scaloni has assured the group that they will remain calm ahead of their encounter against Algeria tonight in Kansas City. Several players return from injuries just in time to make their World Cup 2026 cameo.
“Calm because it’s just a game of football. We have the experience of the last World Cup, the first game is not fundamental. It’s important, but it doesn’t end with the first game,” Lionel Scaloni said on Monday.
“We are good, we are calm. We are facing a good team with good players. But we are calm, we are arriving at a good moment.”
“Everyone wants to see Lionel Messi inside the field, playing. He excited everyone, not just Argentines,” Argentina coach added.
Scaloni updates on the injury of three key Argentina stars
Despite prior injury worries, Scaloni stated Lionel Messi, Emiliano Martínez, and Julián Álvarez will be available for Argentina’s match tonight.
Lionel Messi had a moderate hamstring strain, Álvarez an ankle issue, and goalkeeper Martínez was expected to play despite a fractured ring finger.
“From my part, it’ll always be like that. I don’t see anything negative. He’s been in different conditions and has always been here. He’s always been monumental for us, and now he will be even more. I see him well.”
“Emiliano is okay, Emiliano is available for tomorrow, if he does the same thing he did yesterday and the day before I think he will play … Julian had an ankle problem but his recovery has been good and for tomorrow he is available and an option.”
Scaloni will disclose the starting lineup for the 26-player World Cup squad after Monday’s training session.
La Albiceleste manager stated that Nicolás Tagliafico is the lone player he would keep an eye on ahead of Monday’s meeting.
Which players are still doubtful?
Nicolás Tagliafico’s availability remains uncertain.
Where will the game be played?
Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.
What time will the game start?
17th June, 6:30 am IST.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.