It's a feat that hasn't been achieved since Brazil in 1962, but when you have Lionel Messi looking to finish his international career in style, anything could happen. 

They begin the defence of their trophy in Group J, but what will the South Americans' route look like if they go all the way? 

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Argentina's World Cup group

As top seeds and reigning world champions, Argentina can be pretty pleased with their opening gambit in North America. 

In a group dominated by countries beginning with A, they will face Algeria and Australia as well as debutants Jordon in Group J.  

However, the South Americans won't be taking anyone too lightly after memorably losing to Saudi Arabia in the opening game four years ago in Qatar.

Nevertheless, it's a quarter you can't see Argentina not topping. 

Who could Argentina face in the Round of 32?

If Argentina win their group, then they will face the runner-up from Group H, which is most likely Spain or Uruguay. 

The match would take place on 3 July in Miami, so it would be home turf for captain and talisman Lionel Messi who plays his football with Inter Miami. 

Should the Argentines finish second in their group, then it would be the same opponents, only it would be the winner from Group H. 

If things go really wrong in the groups, then a third-place finish could see them facing a group winner and an early meeting with the likes of Portugal or England. 

(C)Getty Images

Argentina's potential opponents in Round of 16

If they get to the round of 16 having topped their group, then it could present a tie against the hosts USA or possibly Egypt depending on who finishes second in their respective groups.

A second-place finish would most likely see them paired with Croatia in a game taking place in Dallas on July 6. 

Portugal the most likely quarter-final opponent

Should Argentina top the group and progress to the quarter-finals, then their most likely opponents would be Portugal. 

This would see Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi come face-to-face for a final time in their last-ever World Cup finals. 

If the 2022 winners finish second in their group and reach the quarter-finals, then it would be a likely meeting with Belgium. 

@Argentina

Argentina could face Brazil in the semi-finals

If Argentina win their group and reach the semi-finals, then they could face a mouth-watering prospect of playing Brazil in the last four. 

Should they meet, then the match is scheduled to take place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, on July 15.

Finish second in their group and it could be Spain waiting for Argentina. 

And in the final

That match is scheduled to take place at the MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford on July 19, with kick-off set for 8pm BST.

And it could see Argentina take on England or France for the first time in a showpiece final, if things go according to form. 

Who made Lionel Scaloni's squad?

Here is the Argentina squad for the 2026 World Cup 

 

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