FIFA unveiled the group stage schedule for the 2026 World Cup on Saturday, confirming Argentina's matches in Kansas City and Dallas. Coach Lionel Scaloni had a lighthearted moment touching the World Cup trophy without gloves after an apology from Gianni Infantino. Argentina will defend its title in Group J against Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.
In a ceremony held on December 6, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, FIFA presented the full schedule for the 104 group stage matches of the 2026 World Cup, to be played in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Argentina national team, world champions from Qatar 2022, will head Group J and face Algeria on Tuesday, June 16, at 10:00 PM (Argentina time) in Kansas City. Its other two matches will be in Dallas: against Austria on Monday, June 22, at 2:00 PM, and versus Jordan on Saturday, June 27, at 11:00 PM.
During the event, FIFA President Gianni Infantino led the proceedings alongside Argentine journalist Andrés Cantor, with participation from legends such as Ronaldo Nazário, Francesco Totti, Hristo Stoichkov, and Alexi Lalas. A highlight involved coach Lionel Scaloni: initially, protocol required him to wear gloves while handling the World Cup trophy, leading to an unusual incident. Infantino publicly apologized and invited Scaloni onstage to touch the trophy without gloves, acknowledging Argentina's champion status.
This venue setup minimizes travel for the Albiceleste, allowing a base in Texas and an approximate 5,700-kilometer journey. Scaloni commented on the opponents and his potential contract renewal until 2030, while Claudio 'Chiqui' Tapia expressed preferences for certain venues. The ceremony also spotlighted other matchups, such as France's debut against Senegal in New Jersey and the opener between Mexico and South Africa at Estadio Azteca on June 11.
