Group J
Group J features defending world champions Argentina alongside Austria, Algeria and Jordan. The 2022 World Cup winners begin their title defence here — get AI-powered win probability and match analysis for every Group J fixture.
Group J is Argentina's group — the defending world champions open their title defence against Austria, Algeria and Jordan. Argentina's 2022 triumph in Qatar was one of the greatest World Cup narratives of all time, and they arrive in 2026 as genuine contenders to become only the fourth nation in history to retain the trophy.
Austria are a physically capable European side with experience from top European leagues, while Algeria bring AFCON-calibre African football and a determined qualifying campaign. Jordan are making one of their first World Cup appearances and will savour every moment against the defending champions. Group J is a significant step up for both Algeria and Jordan — Argentina and Austria are expected to advance.
Argentina's 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar was the culmination of one of football's greatest ever tournament performances. Three-time world champions and equipped with a squad that extends well beyond a single superstar, Argentina will be motivated to prove their 2022 title was no fluke. Their combination of South American resilience, tactical discipline and attacking creativity makes them dangerous in any format.
Austria qualified comfortably through the UEFA qualifying section and bring Bundesliga and Premier League-experienced players. While not among the tournament's elite nations, Austria are well-organised and can frustrate stronger opponents. A point against Argentina or a win against Algeria would put them firmly in contention for second place.
Argentina are heavy favourites to win Group J. As defending champions with a deep, experienced squad, they are expected to advance as group winners with maximum or near-maximum points. Austria offer the strongest resistance in the group, but Argentina's quality should be sufficient to top the group comfortably.
Argentina are among the three or four biggest favourites for the 2026 title. Retaining the World Cup would be only the fourth time in history any nation has done so. Their squad has the experience of 2022 winners, a system that has proven it can compete against the best, and the hunger of champions who know how to win tournaments.
Yes — Jordan qualifying for the 2026 World Cup represents a major milestone for football in the Middle East and Asia. They qualified through the AFC section and will face an extraordinary challenge in Group J against Argentina and Austria. The experience will be formative for an entire generation of Jordanian footballers and football fans.