Argentina vs Algeria: the last five results for both nations, who are the favorites?

16.06.26 FT World Cup

Argentina

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Algeria

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The big day has arrived. In the early hours of Wednesday, June 17, at 2:00 AM in Algeria (3:00 AM in France), Algeria returns to the World Cup stage after a twelve-year absence, facing a monumental challenge against reigning champions Argentina.

At the Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Vladimir Petkovic's men will attempt to pull off a sensational upset against an Albiceleste side led by Lionel Messi, in a clash that promises to be one of the marquee matchups of Group J’s opening day.

Also read: Argentina vs Algeria: which channels and what time to watch the World Cup match live?

Both nations come into this contest brimming with confidence. Argentina boasts an impressive run of five straight victories, reaffirming their status as tournament favorites. The Albiceleste’s recent results include:

• Argentina 3 - 0 Iceland (friendly, June 10, 2026)
• Argentina 2 - 0 Honduras (friendly, June 7, 2026)
• Argentina 5 - 0 Zambia (friendly, April 1, 2026)
• Argentina 2 - 1 Mauritania (friendly, March 28, 2026)
• Chile 0 - 1 Argentina (World Cup Qualifiers, end of 2025)

On the other hand, despite a painful exit in the quarterfinals of AFCON 2025 against Nigeria, Algeria responded brilliantly. The Fennecs are now unbeaten in four matches, highlighted by a sensational win in the Netherlands and a commanding victory over Bolivia:

• Algeria 4 - 0 Bolivia (friendly, June 11, 2026)
• Netherlands 0 - 1 Algeria (friendly, June 3, 2026)
• Algeria 0 - 0 Uruguay (friendly, March 31, 2026)
• Algeria 7 - 0 Guatemala (friendly, March 27, 2026)
• Nigeria 2 - 0 Algeria (AFCON 2025 quarterfinal, January 10, 2026)

With all the ingredients in place, this promises to be a top-level showdown between two teams entering their World Cup opener with lofty ambitions. Argentina will be aiming to underline their credentials as reigning world champions, while Algeria will be out to prove they can go toe-to-toe with the planet’s elite.

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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