Updated June 22, 2026, 4:55 p.m. ET
Day 12 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup closes out matchday two for Groups I and J. All eyes will be on Lionel Messi as he attempts to add another record to his incredible collection of accolades.
Argentina and Austria open the day in Arlington in a battle for the top of Group J. France follows in Philadelphia with a chance to clinch its knockout spot against an Iraq side already in trouble. Then Norway takes its Group I lead back to MetLife Stadium against a Senegal team looking to get on the board. Jordan and Algeria end the night at Levi’s Stadium in a battle of pointless sides.
All times Eastern and accurate as of Friday, June 19, 2026, at 2:28 p.m.
Group J: Argentina vs Austria
Time/TV: 1:00 PM ET on Fox at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas
Why watch: With his matchday one hat trick, Lionel Messi pulled into a tie with Miroslav Klose for the all-time scoring lead at the World Cup with 16 goals. In addition to this being one of the last chances of watching the best to ever do it at the World Cup, it’s a chance to witness history. You simply cannot pass up that opportunity if you’re a fan of the sport.
Why it could disappoint: Austria is no slouch, as they are fighting for the top of the group, and will understand the task at hand: keep Messi quiet. If things go their way, it could be a frustrating day for the defending champs and possibly for everyone tuning in to catch a glimpse of greatness.
Group I: France vs Iraq
Time/TV: 5:00 PM ET on Fox at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Why watch: After a slow start against Senegal, Les Bleus stepped on the gas and looked like the team everyone was expecting. If we see the same France that showed up in the second half, they are must-see TV. With Mbappé just two goals behind Messi in the all-time scoring charts, any time these two step on the field it could literally change history.
Why it could disappoint: France are massive favorites in this one. If things get out of hand early, there’s a chance they take their foot off the gas and try to rest some of their biggest stars ahead of a potential winner-take-all matchup against Norway. On the other hand, if Iraq succeeds in defending their goal, it could also make for a poor viewing experience.
Watch the 2026 World Cup with FuboGroup I: Norway vs Senegal
Time/TV: 8:00 PM ET on Fox at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Why watch: This could be the most intriguing matchup of the day. Norway looked fantastic in their opener against Iraq, with Erling Haaland finding the net twice. Senegal acquitted themselves admirably before France outclassed them late on. The African side could be fighting for their tournament lives here, which could make for an open game on both sides.
Why it could disappoint: With that said, if the game is too open, Norway has the ability up top to take advantage early and often. If Senegal is too desperate, the Norwegians could put this one out of reach pretty early.
Group J: Jordan vs Algeria
Time/TV: 11:00 PM ET on FS1 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California
Why watch: This is likely an elimination match between two sides with a lot to prove after opening losses. While there isn’t much in the way of star power on either side, we can only hope two desperate teams colliding makes for an entertaining match.
Why it could disappoint: Both teams know another loss means their likely done for. That could make for some cautious soccer. If neither side wants to open up and take risks, it could be a long 90 minutes in an already unfavorable time slot for the neutral observer.
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