Argentina, Algeria Fans Clash In New York Ahead Of 2026 World Cup Opener [Video]

Supporters of Argentina and Algeria were involved in a tense confrontation in New York’s Times Square on Tuesday, just hours before their countries meet in the opening Group J match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Kansas City.

Videos shared on 𝕏 showed chaotic scenes in the heart of Manhattan as fans wearing the colours of both nations exchanged shoves and heated gestures in a crowded section of the famous tourist hub.

The footage, posted by an 𝕏 user #dammiedammie35, captured groups of supporters pushing one another while police officers stepped in to prevent the situation from escalating further.

Officers were seen physically separating rival fans as the confrontation spread across the pavement, drawing the attention of passers-by who stopped to record the incident on their phones.

Several Argentina supporters, some shirtless and waving national flags, appeared to exchange verbal taunts with Algerian fans, who stood their ground amid the disorder.

At the time of writing, there were no immediate reports of arrests or serious injuries following the altercation.

The incident comes ahead of one of the most anticipated fixtures in Group J, with defending champions, Argentina, preparing to face Algeria at 2 a.m. Nigerian time on Wednesday, June 17.

Argentina, captained by Lionel Messi, entered the tournament as favourites, while Algeria will be aiming to make a strong statement on their return to the World Cup stage.

Watch the altercation between Argentina and Algerian supporters below: