Leandro Balerdi is out of the World Cup after suffering an injury in training. The Argentina centre‑back had been named in the squad as Argentina officially released their 2026 FIFA World Cup list, with Lionel Messi earning a historic sixth World Cup call‑up.
Softfootball believes, With Balerdi injured, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni will now select a replacement ahead of the tournament.
Argentina will play their 2026 FIFA World Cup group‑stage matches in Group J against Algeria, Austria and Jordan.
The defending champions begin their campaign on June 16, 2026, in Kansas City before moving to Arlington, Texas, for their remaining fixtures.
Group J Match Schedule
Vs Algeria
Date: Tuesday, 16 June
Local Kick‑Off Time: 20:00 (CT) UK Time (BST): 02:00 (17 June)
Stadium: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
Vs Austria
Date: Monday, 22 June
Local Kick‑Off Time: 12:00 (CT) UK Time (BST): 18:00
Stadium: AT&T Stadium, Arlington (Dallas)
Vs Jordan
Date: Saturday, 27 June
Local Kick‑Off Time: 21:00 (CT) UK Time (BST): 03:00 (28 June)
Stadium: AT&T Stadium, Arlington (Dallas)
