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- Argentina are the 1/3 favourites to win Group J
- Austria narrowly lead Algeria in the betting for second place
- Jordan are overwhelming favourites to finish bottom of the group
Argentina Start World Cup Defence As Group J Offers Potential Surprises
Reigning world champions Argentina head into the 2026 FIFA World Cup carrying familiar expectations, with bookmakers making them clear favourites to top Group J.
But while Lionel Scaloni’s side are expected to progress comfortably, the battle for qualification behind them could become one of the more unpredictable races in the tournament.
Austria, Algeria and Jordan all arrive with differing ambitions, and there is enough balance in the group to suggest the race for second place may go right down to the final fixtures.
The group also features several intriguing first-time meetings, including Argentina facing Jordan for the first time ever at senior international level.
Group J Winner Odds
| Group J Winner | Odds | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Argentina | 1/3 | 75.0% |
| Austria | 9/2 | 18.2% |
| Algeria | 11/2 | 15.4% |
| Jordan | 25/1 | 3.8% |
The odds underline the confidence bookmakers have in Argentina successfully navigating the group stage.
Argentina Looking To Carry Momentum Into Knockout Stage
Argentina’s campaign begins against Algeria in Kansas City before fixtures against Austria and Jordan.
The South Americans only previously faced Algeria once before, edging a dramatic 4-3 friendly victory back in 2007.
While Argentina are expected to dominate possession throughout the group, the key objective will likely be maintaining rhythm and fitness ahead of the knockout rounds.
The fixture against Austria on 22 June could become particularly significant if both sides begin strongly.
What the expert says...
Austria Eyeing Return To World Cup Knockout Stages
Austria enter the tournament as slight favourites to finish behind Argentina and secure qualification.
The Austrians continue to impress with an organised tactical structure and technically strong midfield core, making them difficult opponents in tournament football.
Their opener against Jordan offers an excellent opportunity to build early momentum before later clashes with Argentina and Algeria.
Algeria’s odds of 11/2 suggest bookmakers still view them as genuine contenders to progress from Group J.
Jordan Hoping To Compete On Biggest Stage
Jordan arrive as the outsiders in Group J but will hope to make an impression on the world stage.
The Middle Eastern side face an extremely difficult task against three experienced international teams but may still believe they can remain competitive if they stay organised defensively.
| Group J To Finish Bottom | Odds | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Jordan | 1/5 | 83.3% |
| Algeria | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| Austria | 8/1 | 11.1% |
| Argentina | 66/1 | 1.5% |
Group J Fixtures
Argentina vs Algeria
16 June 2026 – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
Austria vs Jordan
16 June 2026 – Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara
Argentina vs Austria
22 June 2026 – AT&T Stadium, Arlington
Jordan vs Algeria
22 June 2026 – Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara
Algeria vs Austria
27 June 2026 – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
Jordan vs Argentina
27 June 2026 – AT&T Stadium, Arlington
Where To Bet On World Cup Markets
Bookmakers are expected to offer extensive World Cup betting markets throughout the tournament including group winners, qualification specials and player props.
Many football betting sites will also provide enhanced odds, accumulators and free bets during the competition.
