Argentina‘s national team coach, Lionel Scaloni, is keeping the squad composed ahead of their upcoming match against Algeria on Tuesday night in Kansas City, with players recovering from injuries just in time for the 2026 World Cup debut.
“We are calm because this is just a football match. Our experience from the last World Cup teaches us that the first game is important, but it doesn’t define the tournament,” Scaloni stated on Monday.
“We’re in a good place and feeling relaxed. We’re up against a strong team with talented players, but we are well-prepared and confident.”
Scaloni announced that Lionel Messi, Emiliano Martínez, and Julián Álvarez are fit to play on Tuesday despite earlier injury worries.
Messi has been nursing a mild hamstring strain, Álvarez has dealt with an ankle injury, and goalkeeper Martínez is expected to take the field despite a fractured ring finger.
“Everyone is eager to see [Leo] Messi take to the pitch. His presence excites everyone, not just Argentinians,” Scaloni commented.
“From my perspective, it’s always been positive. He has faced challenges but has always shown up for us. His contribution has been monumental, and I feel he’s in great form.”
“Emiliano is fit and ready for tomorrow; if he performs as he has recently, I believe he’ll be on the field… Julián has had an ankle issue, but he has recovered well and is available as an option for tomorrow.”
Scaloni will announce the starting lineup for the 26-player World Cup squad following the training session on Monday.
Regarding player conditions, Scaloni noted that Nicolás Tagliafico is the only player under observation ahead of the match.
“Selecting the starting eleven is always challenging due to the quality of players in the national squad, especially when we have no injuries, which is the case now,” Scaloni explained.
“There are no injured players at the moment. We are simply monitoring Nico Tagliafico’s situation to see if he can train with the team. Otherwise, all players are available.”
“I’ve never struggled to build the team; my main challenge has always been leaving exceptional players out. Equilibrium is essential. We play with 11 players, so I aim to strike a balance, which can result in some talented players not making the cut. But we feel good about where we stand.”
Argentina will take on Algeria on June 16 before competing against Austria and Jordan in Group J of the 2026 World Cup.