/images/ppid_a911dc6a-image-178214052419275550.webp)
/images/ppid_59c68470-image-178214006216255895.webp)
The defending world champions Argentina take on Austria during their second Group J match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they arrive in Dallas in formidable shape to face a highly structured European challenge. Both nations head into this highly anticipated Monday showdown sitting on three points, meaning the victor will seize total control of the group.
Argentina cruised past Algeria with a commanding 3-0 victory, highlighted by a spectacular hat-trick from captain Lionel Messi. Austria also managed to net three goals in their opener, surviving a scare to secure a 3-1 victory over Jordan and signaling their strong return to the tournament.
Argentina vs Austria Team News
With qualification to the knockout stages firmly on the line, both squads are expected to field highly competitive
lineups with a strong tactical focus.
Argentina Team News:
- Manager Lionel Scaloni is widely expected to deploy his trusted 4-3-3 system, designed to maximize Lionel Messi's creative freedom.
- The defensive partnership featuring Lisandro Martinez and Cristian Romero will likely continue to anchor the backline.
- Midfielders Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández will be crucial to escaping the aggressive Austrian high press.
- Lionel Messi remains in peak tournament form and will lead the attack alongside Lautaro Martinez.
Austria Team News:
- Ralf Rangnick's side will rely on their hallmark aggressive high press to unsettle the reigning champions in central areas.
- Konrad Laimer and Nicolas Seiwald will be tasked with crowding Messi and disrupting Argentina's rhythm.
- Veteran talisman Marko Arnautovic, who recently converted a crucial penalty against Jordan, provides physical presence and attacking leadership.
- Captain David Alaba's experience at the highest level adds genuine class and composure to the Austrian defensive structure.
ARG vs AUT Predicted XI Line-up
- Argentina: E. Martinez; Molina, Romero, L. Martinez, Tagliafico; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez; Messi, Lautaro Martinez, Alvarez
- Austria: Pentz; Posch, Danso, Alaba, Mwene; Laimer, Seiwald; Wimmer, Sabitzer, Schmid; Arnautovic
/images/ppid_a911dc6a-image-178214404276570008.webp)
/images/ppid_a911dc6a-image-178214283343755480.webp)
/images/ppid_59c68470-image-178214252219644214.webp)
/images/ppid_59c68470-image-178214252990547130.webp)
