Argentina target rare World Cup repeat as Messi leads top-ranked champions

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup moving from build-up to kick-off, attention turns to the leading teams expected to challenge for the trophy. The focus now falls on Argentina, the holders and the current number-one side in FIFA's rankings.

Argentina arrive as both World Cup winners and Copa America holders. They are trying to do what no country has done since Brazil in 1962: win back-to-back World Cup titles.

Since 2021, the Argentines have collected every major international prize available to them, including one World Cup, two Copa America crowns and the Finalissima.

Much of the squad that lifted the 2022 World Cup is back for 2026, giving Argentina a strong balance of young players, proven quality and tournament experience. The big question is whether Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of football's greatest ever players, can guide his country to another triumph as he approaches 40.

Key players to follow are Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez and Nico Paz. Argentina are drawn in Group J with Algeria, Austria and Jordan.

The FIFA ranking list is headed by Argentina, followed by Spain, France, England, Portugal, Brazil, Morocco, Netherlands, Belgium and Germany.