Argentina to open World Cup against Algeria, US against Paraguay

RONALD BLUM, HOWARD FENDRICH and NOAH TRISTER Associated Press
Dec 5, 2025
Dec 5, 2025 Updated Mar 12, 2026
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WASHINGTON — All around the globe, eyes focused Friday on the stage where World Cup paths were sorted, nation's names chosen one by one in a draw that determined Argentina and Lionel Messi will start their title defense against Algeria and the U.S. will open against Paraguay.

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WCup Draw Soccer — President Donald Trump, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney holds their countries' name during the draw for the 2026 soccer World Cup at the Kennedy Center in Washington on Friday.
Chris Carlson, Associated Press

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WCup Draw Soccer Trump — President Donald Trump, left, speaks as Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, center, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, right, stand on stage during the draw for the 2026 soccer World Cup at the Kennedy Center in Washington on Friday.
Evan Vucci, Associated Press

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