World Cup 2026 / Argentina 1 - 0 Algeria: timid Fennecs still alive at halftime

16.06.26 FT World Cup

Argentina

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Algeria

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Trailing at halftime against Argentina in this Group J showdown of the 2026 World Cup, Algeria still has reason to hope. After a largely timid first half, Vladimir Petkovic's men showed some promising moments and will need to play with more freedom if they are to get back on level terms.

Algeria trails Argentina 1-0 at the break in this high-stakes Group J clash of the 2026 World Cup in Kansas City. Still, Vladimir Petkovic's side can realistically hope for a turnaround in the second half. While the Fennecs have been mostly cautious, they have also shown flashes suggesting they have what it takes to trouble the reigning world champions.

Read also: 2026 World Cup / Argentina - Algeria: official lineups announced!

Indeed, after a cautious start where both teams spent time sizing each other up, chances soon began to flow. Lautaro Martinez first thought he had set up Lionel Messi for an opener, only for the Argentine's goal to be disallowed for offside. Moments later, Algeria also found the net through a superb pass from Ibrahim Maza to Farès Chaïbi, but that goal, too, was ruled out for an illegal position.

Ultimately, it was the genius of Lionel Messi that made the difference. After Hicham Boudaoui failed to intercept, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner picked up the ball between the lines, took advantage of Aïssa Mandi backing off, and unleashed a powerful strike that beat Luca Zidane. Despite trailing on the scoreboard, Algeria will need to play with more freedom in the second half—there are spaces to exploit, and an equalizer remains well within reach.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

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Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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