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FIFA World Cup 2026 Day 6: France, Argentina begin campaigns as Mbappe, Messi take centre stage

France face Senegal, Iraq take on Norway and defending champions Argentina meet Algeria as FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I and J action gets underway.

By Aritra Chatterjee

Jun 16, 2026 18:31 IST

FIFA World Cup 2026 brings three crucial group-stage encounters, with France, Norway and defending champions Argentina set to launch their campaigns in front of a global audience. With stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi in action, fans can expect an entertaining day of high-stakes football.

France face Senegal test as Norway return to World Cup stage

The day's action begins with France taking on Senegal in a highly anticipated Group I clash. Led by captain Kylian Mbappé, France arrive as one of the tournament favourites and will be determined to make a strong start. Senegal, meanwhile, possess the quality and experience to challenge the European giants and will look to begin their campaign with a positive result.

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The second fixture sees Iraq face Norway. Competing in the World Cup for the first time since 1998, Norway carry significant expectations thanks to star striker Erling Haaland.

Iraq will be hoping to frustrate their opponents and secure valuable points in what could prove to be a tightly contested encounter.

Argentina begin title defence against Algeria

Attention then turns to Group J, where defending champions Argentina begin their quest for another World Cup title against Algeria. With Lionel Messi continuing to lead the South American side, Argentina will aim to set the tone for their campaign with an opening victory.

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Algeria, however, are unlikely to make life easy for the reigning champions. The North African side earned their place at the tournament through an impressive qualification campaign and will be eager to pull off an upset against one of football's biggest nations.

With three intriguing fixtures on the schedule, Day 6 could have a major impact on the early group standings. France vs Senegal, Iraq vs Norway and Argentina vs Algeria promise drama, quality and plenty of storylines as the FIFA World Cup 2026 gathers momentum.

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