Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has stressed that his team will approach their FIFA World Cup campaign opener against Algeria with full caution and respect, keeping in mind their shocking defeat to Saudi Arabia in the 2022 tournament opener. Despite eventually winning the title, that early setback remains fresh in the squad's memory.
World Cup Opener Against Algeria
Argentina will face Algeria on Tuesday in Kansas City to kick off their World Cup campaign. In the previous edition, Lionel Messi led the team to glory, but the start was far from smooth. Two second-half goals from Saudi Arabia condemned the then two-time champions to a 1-2 loss. However, Argentina recovered, beating Poland and Mexico in the group stage, then peaking in the knockout rounds to defeat France and capture their third title.
Scaloni's Cautious Approach
Speaking to reporters ahead of the match, as quoted by Reuters, Scaloni, who was with the team during that shock loss, described Algeria as a "great team with quick players up front." Algeria is making their fifth World Cup appearance, with their best finish being the pre-quarterfinals in 2014.
"It is a good side to be careful with and to respect. They will make things difficult," Scaloni said.
Comparison with Morocco
Scaloni likened Algeria's style to that of Morocco, who dominated Brazil in the first half of a 1-1 draw on Saturday. He praised Algeria's "great players and good coach" Vladimir Petkovic.
First Match Not Decisive
The coach also noted that from the last World Cup, they know the first game is not decisive, even though it is important. "We have peace of mind that it does not end in the first match," he said.
Fitness Updates
Scaloni provided encouraging fitness updates, confirming that the squad is fit. Julian Alvarez has recovered from an ankle issue and is available. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, the hero of the 2022 final, is expected to start after fully recovering from a finger fracture sustained during Aston Villa's UEFA Europa League title win.
However, defender Nicolas Tagliafico remains doubtful due to a calf injury.
Otamendi's Warning
Veteran center back Nicolas Otamendi highlighted that Argentina are the "champions everyone will want to beat." He called for defensive organization and pointed out that the start to the 2022 edition should remind the team that "any team can cause problems."
"We have to play our game. They have good players. Overall, we need to try to have a solid defensive organisation," he signed off.
Group J Details
Argentina is placed in Group J alongside Austria, Algeria, and Jordan.
