When will Messi and Ronaldo play their first FIFA World Cup 2026 matches?

Lionel Messi's Argentina will open their World Cup 2026 campaign against Algeria in a Group J match in Kansas City on June 17 at 6:30 am IST. Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal will play their first Group K match against DR Congo in Houston on June 17 at 10:30 pm IST. Messi and Ronaldo are featuring in their sixth FIFA World Cup.