Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
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WILL ARGENTINA PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Will Argentina defend their title in 2026? All signs point to yes. With a brilliant generation of players, a qualifying campaign underway, and the leadership of Messi and Scaloni, Argentina is well-positioned to reach the World Cup in North America. In this article, we break down their odds, current statistics, historical facts, and what's coming up in the qualifiers. If you're passionate about football, this content is for you.
Argentina's Road to the World Cup
Argentina began its journey to the 2026 World Cup on the right foot. After being crowned champion in Qatar 2022, the Scaloneta started the South American Qualifiers with extra motivation: to defend the crown on North American soil. The 2026 host countries (United States, Canada, and Mexico) add a special element, as history fondly remembers Mexico 86 and Maradona's glory.
Start of the Qualifiers and First Results
With Lionel Messi still leading the team, Argentina showed solidity in the first few matches. In their first matches, they defeated Ecuador 1-0 with a stunning free-kick goal from the captain, and then overcame Bolivia in La Paz with a 3-0 victory that clearly demonstrated their dominance. These wins placed the national team at the top of the standings. As of October 2025, Argentina has accumulated 16 points in 6 matches played, with 5 wins and 1 draw, and no losses. They have the best defensive record and a favorable goal difference, which puts them in a privileged position for direct qualification. New rules and expanded slots For 2026, FIFA expanded the number of slots to 48 teams. South America will have 6 direct spots and 1 playoff spot. This means that, barring a football catastrophe, Argentina will be at the World Cup. CONMEBOL slots: 6 direct + 1 playoff. Argentina is undefeated in the qualifiers. They only need to finish in the top 6. They have a positive goal difference. They have the leadership of Messi and Scaloni. In short: barring a disaster, Argentina will be present in 2026.
Numbers, figures and key rivals
Beyond the results, the data supports the good moment of the National Team. Lionel Messi remains the most decisive player, but the team has managed to revitalize its roster with players like Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister.
Key stats heading into 2026
Argentina is unbeaten in 20 official matches
Has the best defense in the qualifiers
Scored at least 1 goal in every match
Scaloni has an 80% winning percentage as manager
Messi is the all-time leading scorer with 106 goals
The Generational Change
Scaloni has managed to combine experience and youth. The transition has been seamless. The 2022 champions are being integrated with new talents who are already shining in Europe. Rodrigo De Paul, Cristian Romero, and Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez are undisputed pillars.
Furthermore, the return of players like Lo Celso and the emergence of promising players like Alejandro Garnacho provide depth and tactical options.
Tough Rivals in the Region
Brazil is always the main rival, although they recently changed coaches and are not at their best. Uruguay under Bielsa has shown intensity, while Colombia and Ecuador are on the rise. But Argentina maintains an advantage over everyone in recent results. With this outlook, qualification is not only probable, but very close.
Historical curiosities and what's to come
Argentina has participated in 18 of the 22 World Cups played. Its record is elite: 3 titles (1978, 1986 and 2022), 6 finals played and a football tradition that spans generations. Did you know that it's one of the only national teams to have won a World Cup outside of its continent?
Interesting facts about the Albiceleste
Argentina won its first World Cup with Kempes as top scorer
In 1986, Maradona was the MVP
In 2022, Messi was chosen as the best player
It's the only reigning champion that won the immediately preceding Copa América
It has 3 U-20 titles won between 2005 and 2007
What's next for the National Team
Argentina will face Paraguay, Brazil, and Uruguay in the coming months. The schedule intensifies, but the team arrives in good form. Scaloni's continuity, Messi's leadership (even if he decides to step aside after qualifying), and the squad's level allow us to expect solid preparation.
The AFA is already working on the logistics for the 2026 World Cup, planning friendlies in the USA and Mexico to familiarize the team with local conditions. There is also anticipation about a possible training camp in Miami or Los Angeles.
Everything indicates that Scaloni will be present once again. And hungry to repeat the feat.
Will Argentina play in the 2026 World Cup? Everything points to yes. And not just to play in it... but to win it again.
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