The PuntHub view — The champions' commute
Argentina start the defence with the 2022 core intact and Messi, who'll be 39 by the final, playing his last World Cup on the continent where he now lives. They won the Copa América in the States two years ago. Every 'neutral' stadium will be three-quarters sky blue. As away trips go, this is a commute.
Austria are the real opposition. Rangnick has built the best-drilled pressing side outside the top tier and they won't care who they're playing. Algeria bring Mahrez and a knack for tournament chaos, and Jordan make their debut. If Argentina don't top this, something has gone properly wrong.
Verdict: Argentina stroll it, Austria second.