2026 World Cup: Algeria’s three group rivals decimated!

Africa Today at 16:00

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

News Editor

With less than two weeks to go before the kick-off of the 2026 World Cup, bad news keeps piling up for Algeria’s opponents in Group D.

Indeed, Argentina, Austria, and Jordan have all been hit by significant injuries in recent days. With confirmed withdrawals and lingering doubts, several key players or expected starters could miss the global showdown—a scenario far from ideal on the eve of such a demanding competition.

Argentina: verdict falls for Leonardo Balerdi

Argentina has officially lost one of its defenders even before the start of the 2026 World Cup. Leonardo Balerdi will not take part in the tournament after suffering an injury during Albiceleste’s preparations.

Also read: Algeria: Vladimir Petkovic to extend his contract this Saturday!

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed the news this Saturday in an official statement. The Olympique de Marseille center-back sustained a muscle injury to his right calf, forcing him to withdraw from the competition. “Leonardo Balerdi suffered a muscle injury to the soleus in his right leg and will not be part of the squad for the World Cup,” the Argentine federation announced.

As a result, Lionel Scaloni will have to contend without the Marseille defender for the world stage. However, the AFA has yet to reveal who will replace him in the defending champions’ squad, as Argentina’s tournament opener draws near.

Austria: Baumgartner already ruled out

On the Austrian side, the verdict has also been delivered. Christoph Baumgartner will not play in the 2026 World Cup. The Leipzig attacking midfielder has been forced to withdraw due to a muscle injury in his right thigh.

This absence is a real blow for Ralf Rangnick. After a solid Bundesliga season, Baumgartner was one of the most influential players in Austria’s setup. Consequently, the coach will have to quickly find a solution to compensate for the loss of one of his main attacking orchestrators.

Jordan: two major absences in attack

Jordan hasn’t been spared either. Already without Yazan Al-Naimat for several months after a cruciate ligament rupture, the Jordanian squad has now lost another attacking asset.

Ibrahim Sabra, a 20-year-old striker for Lokomotiv Zagreb, tore the ligaments in his left ankle during training. The Jordanian federation has confirmed he will miss the World Cup. As a result, Jordan will approach the first World Cup in its history without two major attacking options—a significant handicap ahead of clashes with Algeria, Argentina, and Austria.

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