Argentina's Lionel Messi leads the Golden Boot standings at FIFA World Cup 2026 with five goals in two games. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Argentina has won Group J at FIFA World Cup 2026 after securing two wins in its opening two games.

The defending champion beat Algeria 3-0 in its opener before defeating Austria 2-0 on Monday, with Lionel Messi grabbing all five goals.

Meanwhile, later in the day, Algeria kept its knockout hopes alive after coming from behind to beat debutant Jordan 2-1.

Points table

Qualification scenarios:

Argentina has six points after two rounds, and none of the other three teams in the group can now finish above the South American side.

While one of Algeria or Austria can finish with six points, Argentina has the head-to-head advantage over both teams.

Algeria will take on Austria in its final game, and a win for either side will take them to six points and help them qualify as the second-placed team.

If the match ends in a draw, Austria will go through due to a better goal difference, while Algeria will sit third and be in a good position to qualify as one of the eight best-placed teams.

Meanwhile, Jordan has been eliminated from the competition after two losses and will face Argentina in its final game.

Published on Jun 23, 2026