The draw placed Argentina in group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and newcomer Jordan. European champions Spain are in group H with new participant Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. Argentina and Spain could face each other in the round of 16 if one team finishes first and the other second in their respective groups.

However, coach Lionel Scaloni emphasized his disinterest in discussing distant hypotheticals. "First, we must get past the group stage, then we can think further," he stated, stressing that scenarios not guaranteed to happen should not be prematurely evaluated.

The 47-year-old coach reiterated a stance he made during the 2022 World Cup. "There are no easy opponents. This is a group where we must give our all to advance to the next round," he affirmed.

Coach Lionel Scaloni brings the World Cup trophy onto the stage during the 2026 World Cup draw at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington D.C., US, on 5/12. *Reuters*

Scaloni took time to comment on each opponent Argentina will face. Regarding Austria, he noted that the team performed impressively in the qualifiers and will certainly be a challenging opponent.

Speaking of Algeria, Argentina's coach described them as a quality team with talented players and a strong youth system, contributing to both French and other football leagues. He praised Algeria's head coach, Vladimir Petkovic, who previously coached Scaloni during his time at Lazio.

As for Jordan, Scaloni admitted they are the opponent he has the least information about, but he would not underestimate them. "No one can be taken lightly. If they are at the World Cup, they certainly deserve to be there," Argentina's head coach stated.

Scaloni also provided an update on captain Lionel Messi's potential participation in the World Cup. "In principle, everything is fine, but as he said, there is still time. Although it feels like the World Cup is very close, six months is still a long period," he shared. "We hope he stays healthy and makes the best decision."

Messi kisses the FIFA World Cup trophy after receiving the 2022 World Cup Golden Ball at Lusail Stadium on 18/12/2022. *AFP*

Messi has not yet decided whether to participate in the 2026 World Cup. The 38-year-old forward previously stated he does not want to be a burden on Argentina at the 2026 World Cup. He also left open the possibility of joining the Argentina delegation in North America in the summer of 2026, potentially in a different capacity, similar to Sergio Aguero at the 2022 World Cup when he was registered as a member of Argentina's coaching staff.

If he plays, the 2026 World Cup will undoubtedly be Messi's final tournament at the national team level. However, former forward Gabriel Batistuta asserted he is not sad, as nothing lasts forever. "I'm happy that we have enjoyed Messi for so long," he told *Ole*.

Batistuta is a legendary Argentine forward, who held the record for scoring 56 goals in 78 matches until 21/6/2016, when Messi surpassed him. He participated in three World Cups: 1994, 1998, and 2002, and won the Copa America in 1991 and 1993.

Batistuta stated he was never overly concerned with the draw, only wishing to know the opponents early for preparation. He also believes Argentina is capable of defending their title in the upcoming tournament. "They are world champions and have maintained their form over the past three years," Batistuta said. "I think Argentina is a contender, though of course, that does not guarantee the championship. Even a single misplaced throw-in could lead to elimination."

Hong Duy (according to *Mundo Deportivo*, *Marca*)