Tension rose in New York’s famous Times Square on Tuesday as fans of Algeria and Argentina clashed just hours before their teams meet in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group J opener in Kansas City.
A video going around on social media, posted on X by #dammiedammie35, showed the wild scenes in the busy square. Fans wearing Algerian jerseys mixed with those in Argentina kits.
The clip captured groups of supporters shoving each other amid bright billboards and crowded sidewalks. Police officers rushed in to separate the opposing fans while bystanders recorded the fight.
Officers in uniform were seen pushing fans apart to calm things down as the altercation spilled onto the pavement covered in debris.
Argentina fans, some without shirts and waving flags, shouted and gestured wildly while Algerian supporters stood their ground.
People on social media reacted strongly to the viral video. One user, #Ezhekelly, wrote, “Eliminate Argentina from the world cup now,” while #Im_Kenny_A humorously said, “Someone should pls pay for my ticket to USA! I have to defend my Argentina brothers.”
#Share_hodler001 warned, “Two rugged countries. Mafians full those two countries.” As #TheHmans44 commented, “Algerians cowards always attacking from behind in group like rats and still losing.”
This clash happens as defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, get ready to face Algeria in what is expected to be a heated Group J match. Argentina is the favorite to win, but the North Africans, who are back in the World Cup, have promised to make an impact.
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