2026 World Cup / Argentina - Algeria: Lionel Scaloni teases Petkovic!

16.06.26 FT World Cup

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Before the highly anticipated clash between Argentina and Algeria at the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Scaloni made headlines with a pointed comment about Vladimir Petkovic.

As the 2026 World Cup draws near, the qualified national teams are ramping up preparations with their first training camps and some headline-grabbing statements. This time, it’s Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, who spoke to TyC Sports about Vladimir Petkovic, whom he’ll face in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.

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The Argentine tactician, reigning world champion, didn’t hesitate to joke about their shared past at Lazio before expressing his respect for the coach of the Fennecs.

“What do I think about Petkovic? He never played me at Lazio, not even as a substitute. I still hold it against him! I hope to beat him,” he said with a laugh.

He then continued on a more serious note:

“But seriously, he’s a very good coach and someone I respect a lot. We talked even before Argentina was drawn against Algeria, and I’m looking forward to facing him.”

For the record, Algeria and Argentina will face off on June 17, 2026, in Kansas City for the opening match of Group J at the 2026 World Cup.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

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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