Group J of the 2026 World Cup: Favorable for Argentina

Argentina is in a relatively easy group with opponents Algeria, Austria, and Jordan in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup.

The 2026 World Cup is almost certainly Messi's last major tournament - Photo: AFP

Defending champions Argentina will begin their journey to defend their World Cup title in Group J against Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.

It's hard to stop Messi and Argentina.

The focus of attention for the Argentine team at this tournament remains superstar Lionel Messi. This will almost certainly be the last World Cup for the 39-year-old legend.

The 2022 World Cup champions still possess a squad with exceptional depth. Under coach Scaloni, Argentina flexibly operates a 4-3-3 or 4-4-2 formation. They focus on high-pressing, quick transitions, and controlling the tempo of the game.

The championship-winning squad from 2022 remains intact, featuring goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, and central defenders Cristian Romero and Nicolas Otamendi. This is complemented by a dynamic midfield consisting of Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, and Rodrigo De Paul.

Argentina's attack, with the duo of Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez alongside Messi, still makes every opponent wary.

If the existing squad continues to perform well and coach Scaloni can optimize Messi's role, then the defending champions' deep run in the tournament is almost certain.

Opta's supercomputer still predicts that the South American representative has about a 10% chance of winning the championship, ranking fourth after Spain, France, and England.

Will Jordan spring a surprise?

This is the first time in history that Jordan has qualified for a World Cup. The ticket to the biggest football event on the planet is a well-deserved reward after an incredibly impressive qualifying campaign by the Asian representative.

Jordan is an interesting dark horse at the 2026 World Cup - Photo: AFP

However, being drawn into a group with the defending champions Argentina and two formidable opponents from Europe and Africa will be an extremely difficult challenge for Jordan.

Besides a dominant Argentina, Algeria is also a formidable dark horse, as this is their second World Cup appearance since their first in 2014.

Meanwhile, the Austrian national team is making a comeback to the world stage after a 28-year absence and has built a well-structured system. Both Austria and Algeria possess a disciplined playing style, willing to sit deep and block the opponent's playing space to minimize their strength.

For Jordan, creating surprises against experienced opponents like Austria or Algeria requires them to maintain high levels of concentration and make the most of counter-attacking opportunities.

Despite being considered the underdog in the group, Jordan, with a relaxed mindset, could very well spring some big surprises in North America.

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THANH DINH

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/bang-j-world-cup-2026-thuan-loi-cho-argentina-20260527093209797.htm