Fifa World Cup 2026: What you need to know about Argentina
Argentina made it past the group stage in 13 of their last 14 World Cup appearances, the exception coming in 2002
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Get the lowdown on every team at the 2026 World Cup. Here we take a closer look at Argentina
What can I expect from Argentina?
The most dominant international team in world football or defending champions on the cusp of a painstaking transition? Argentina are at a fascinating point as they prepare to defend the title they won four years ago in Qatar.
Under head coach Lionel Scaloni, the Albiceleste have sandwiched their third world crown with two Copa America titles. The core of that squad – including their iconic leader Lionel Messi – remains.
There is no denying, though, that Messi, who turns 39 during the tournament, is in a relative decline.
So, while Argentina boast a plethora of elite players, can they remain the same formidable force without their long-time conductor at full tilt? With Angel Di Maria retired from international football too, it's time for the supporting cast to step up.
What are Argentina's strengths?
Messi may be a fading force, but Argentina have firepower aplenty. Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez are proven goalscorers on the big stage, while Enzo Fernandez provides a creative spark from midfield.
Youngsters Nico Paz and Valentin Barco could add a fresh thrust from the bench too.
And what about their weaknesses?
Defensive issues have surfaced. There are doubts over who will line up at centre-back after Cristian Romero's injury problems, while regular left-back Nicolas Tagliafico also had a torrid end to the season at Lyon.
Occasional lapses have crept into goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez's game in recent seasons.
How might Argentina line up?
Which players should I look out for?
Emiliano Martinez has been a vital figure in Argentina's current era of international success, making key saves and dominating shootouts. He has faced 33 penalties in competitive shootouts for club and country, saving 10 – with two others missed.
After his crowning moment in Qatar, captain Lionel Messi (left) is back to play in his sixth World Cup – a men's record which will be matched by Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal.
With Messi potentially having his time carefully managed, Enzo Fernandez will be expected to take on more responsibility. His breakthrough showing at Qatar 2022 preceded a £106m move to Chelsea, whose failure to qualify for Europe has left his future in doubt.
Lionel Messi has played in 26 matches at the World Cup, more than any other player - the 38-year-old has racked up 13 goals and eight assists during those games
Who is Argentina's head coach?
Lionel Scaloni has transformed the fortunes of the Argentina national team since his appointment in 2018. He will be looking to emulate Vittorio Pozzo (Italy in 1934 and 1938) as the only manager to win the World Cup twice.
How did Argentina qualify?
How they qualified The defending champions cruised through South America's qualifying group, finishing nine points clear of second-placed Ecuador.
Where can I watch Argentina?
All of Argentina's matches will also be covered live on the BBC Sport website and app with updates, analysis, and fan reaction. Come and be part of it!
Give me a fact to impress my friends
Jose Manuel Lopez, who plays for Palmeiras, is the first Brazil-based player to be called up for an Argentina World Cup squad in 20 years - the last two were Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano, who were both at Corinthians.
Now give me some proper detail
Before the 2022 World Cup final, Lionel Messi said that tournament would be his last. Lionel Scaloni wasn't so sure. "The door will always be open," the head coach said after their victory over France.
A month before the 2026 tournament, Argentina supporters were left in the dark about whether their captain or coach was right. In the end, it was Scaloni. Messi is in and one saga was resolved. But there have been more dramas for the Albiceleste to contend with.
Critics have suggested there has been some complacency in Argentina's preparations. During the March international break, the team played friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia – ranked 115th and 91st in the world at the time. Their final warm-up fixtures are against Honduras and Iceland.
After the win over Zambia, a reporter was escorted out of the press conference for questioning Scaloni over the calibre of Argentina's opposition. The Argentine Football Association is also embroiled in a scandal over misappropriated funds dating back to 2023.
In previous turbulent times, the team would gravitate towards Messi on and off the pitch. It feels as though this competition could be the stage for a changing of the guard though. How Argentina cope with that realisation might determine just how strong the defence of their title is.
How have Argentina done at previous World Cups?
Argentina won their third World Cup in 2022, 36 years after their second triumph at Mexico 1986. Only Italy (44 years from 1938 to 1982) have had a longer gap between lifting the trophy.
