Team: Algeria

Algeria return to the World Cup as one of Africa's most consistent performers and face one of the toughest opening assignments in the tournament, taking on defending champions Argentina in Group J on June 16 in Kansas City. The Desert Foxes have built a strong squad around players competing in Europe's top leagues, with a mix of experience and youth. Their 2019 AFCON title demonstrated the ability to win under pressure. Algeria play with defensive discipline and a genuine threat on the counter that gives them a chance against any opponent, and their opening match against Argentina will capture the attention of the entire football world.

Algeria booked their World Cup return for the first time since 2014 with a 3-0 win away to Somalia in their penultimate Group G qualifier, after Riyad Mahrez and company won seven and drew one of their first nine qualifying matches.