The Argentina of Lionel Messi are starting to work out a detailed roadmap before the 2026 FIFA world cup and friendly matches, international tournaments, and group-stage preparations are now in view. The Albiceleste according to reports in Argentina and the regional media will take the next few months to be able to perfect their preparations in several continents.
This timeline begins in the late March when Argentina will play Spain in Finalissima in Lusail Iconic Stadium in Doha on March 27. Still in the Middle East, Lionel Scaloni team is likely to face Qatar on either March 30 or 31, which will likely give the team as much time as possible to stay in the Middle East before turning to the Americas.
The FIFA international window planned in June, June 1-9 will see Argentina play two high profile friendlies, in the United States. They are reportedly to play Mexico in Las Vegas before playing Honduras in Hard Rock stadium in Miami. These matches are only days before the first match of the 2026 world cup between Mexico and South Africa in the Estadio Azteca.
And after the friendlies, Argentina will relocate to Kansas City, where they will face Group J of the 2026 world cup, against Algeria on June 16. The AFA will retain the squad in Kansas during the group stage, which will minimize traveling and stabilize consistency. The games with Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27 will involve short journeys to Dallas.
