Lionel Messi has been declared fit to represent the Argentina national football team in their upcoming clash against Algeria.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that Messi and two of his key players are ready to feature in their World Cup 2026 opener against Algeria.

The defending champions Argentina will face Algeria in their first Group J match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The match is scheduled to take place at Kansas City Stadium in Kansas, United States, on Wednesday (June 17, 2026) morning local time.

This encounter marks the beginning of Argentina’s campaign in the 2026 edition of the tournament, as they arrive with the reputation of reigning world champions.

Holding the number one spot in the world rankings, La Albiceleste are heavily favoured to secure victory in their opening fixture.

Moreover, Argentina boast a star-studded squad that, on paper, looks far superior to their North African opponents.

Despite being favourites, the Argentine camp had earlier faced concerns due to injuries to several crucial players before the tournament commenced.

Among them was captain Lionel Messi, who had suffered an injury while playing for his club, Inter Miami.

However, there was a positive development when the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, known as “La Pulga,” made a substitute appearance in Argentina’s final warm-up match.

As the opening match approaches, coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Messi’s fitness has improved significantly and that the superstar has looked sharp during training sessions.

Scaloni also confirmed that Messi will feature in the match against Algeria.

“Leo Messi is always there for us and remains a fundamental player,” Scaloni told Sportskeeda, as quoted by BolaSport.com.

“Now he will be even more important, and he looks to be in excellent condition at the moment,” the coach added.

In addition to Messi, two other key players whose participation had been in doubt—forward Julian Alvarez and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez—are also fit for the match.

Alvarez had been dealing with an ankle issue, while Aston Villa’s shot-stopper Martinez missed two warm-up games due to a fractured finger.

This news has brought immense relief to Argentine supporters, given the vital roles Alvarez and Martinez played in leading Argentina to their previous World Cup triumph.

Scaloni assured that both players have recovered fully and will be ready to play in Wednesday’s match.

“Julian Alvarez had some ankle problems, but his recovery has gone well, and he is ready to play tomorrow,” said Scaloni.

“Emiliano Martinez is also in good shape and ready to play tomorrow,” the 48-year-old coach added.