The official draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has set the opening paths for the competing nations. Defending champion Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, will begin its title defense against Algeria in a group that also includes Austria. Meanwhile, host nation the United States learned it will open its campaign on June 12 against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

What Are the Opening Matches for Key Teams?

The draw, held at the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., finalized the initial opponents for the tournament’s headline acts.

Argentina: The defending champions start against Algeria in Group J, with Austria as their other confirmed group opponent.

United States: The host nation kicks off its tournament against Paraguay in Group D on June 12, a day after the globa

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