/fit-in/356x343/1780320447/lg-dsgn-8952-featured-images-best-betting-tips.png)
Written by
James Wilkerson
18+ Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of qualifying bets. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. Registration Required. Gambleaware.org
Champions Argentina begin the defense of their title when they take on Algeria at the 2026 World Cup.
It is Argentina that are favourites to win the match at 1.40 with bet365, with Algeria priced at 8.00. The draw is available at 4.75. However, it looks worth while to back both teams to score in this contest at 2.20 given the attacking talent on display.
Reasons to Follow this Bet
Argentina finished top of their qualification route and have impressive attacking options, especially Messi and Alvarez.
Algeria are potential dark horses this tournament after winning eight of their 10 qualifying games and then friendly wins over the Netherlands and Bolivia.
Algeria have experienced attacker Riyad Mahrez, young midfielder Ibrahim Maza, attack-minded full-back Rayan Ait-Nouri and Marsaille striker Amine Gouiri who could help them get on the scoresheet.
Argentina vs Algeria - Team News
Argentina could have key defender Cristian Romero available after a knee injury ruled him cut short his Premier League season with Spurs. If he isn't ready to start this, however, Nicolas Otamendi or Lautaro Martinez could step in. The bigger news should be that Julian Alvarez can start after managing an ankle injury.
Algeria have no major injury issues but will need to manage the minutes of their experienced players like Bentaleb and Mahrez. Expect Feyenoord winger Anis Hadj Moussa to replace Mahrez at some stage to add fresh legs out wide. Ibrahim Maza and Mohamed Amoura will also be key to opening up a stubborn Argentina defence.
Argentina vs Algeria Line-ups
Argentina: E Martinez - Molina, Romero, L Martinez, Tagilafico - Mac Allister, Paredes, Fernandez - Messi, Alvarez, Almada.
Algeria: Zidane - Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Ait-Nouri - Boudaoui, Bentaleb, Maza - Mahrez, Gouiri, Amoura.
18+ Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of qualifying bets. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. Registration Required. Gambleaware.org
Sportsbook Expert
Betting online since 2007, James Wilkerson has a keen eye for detail when it comes sportsbooks. Primarily a football bettor, he is a huge fan of watching the matches live, and is here to give you insight from his experience.