World Cup 2026, Algeria, Argentina...: Group J standings after matchday one

The opening day of Group J at the 2026 World Cup has already provided its first insights. While Argentina and Austria seize control at the top of the standings, Algeria and Jordan now find themselves in urgent need of a response in their next outing.

Argentina and Austria kicked off their World Cup 2026 campaigns in style, both securing victories on the first matchday in Group J. Thanks to a convincing win over Algeria (3-0), La Albiceleste provisionally grabs top spot in the table with a superior goal difference. Meanwhile, the Fennecs and Jordan are already under pressure ahead of their decisive clash on matchday two.

Group J standings

The group’s opening match saw Argentina dominate Algeria 3-0, with a sensational hat-trick from Lionel Messi, once again underlining his role as the undisputed leader of La Albiceleste.

In the other match, Austria got the better of Jordan (3-1) thanks to goals from Romano Schmid (21’), an own goal by Yazan Al-Arab (76’), and Marko Arnautović from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time (90’+12), while Ali Olwan had brought Jordan level early in the second half.

Heading into matchday two, the showdown between Algeria and Jordan is already shaping up to be crucial in the race for qualification. Indeed, the loser could see their hopes of reaching the round of 16 severely diminished, while Argentina and Austria will be looking to take a giant stride toward the next phase.