Predicted lineups, where to watch, stats and previews as Messi looks to break the goalscoring record
Argentina will look to seal their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup when they face Austria in Dallas on Monday.
The world champions got off to a good start in Group J, beating Algeria 3-0, while Austria also opened their campaign with three points after beating Jordan 3-1.
Lionel Messi once again hit the headlines in Argentina’s opening game, scoring a stunning hat-trick against Algeria to remind the football world that he can still decide games at the biggest stage.
The 38-year-old is now one goal away from breaking the World Cup goalscoring record, but will be focused on helping Argentina defend the trophy they won in Qatar four years ago.
Ralf Rangnick’s Austria were made to work hard for this result, only to come out on top with a shutout after Jordan threatened to trouble them for a long time.
Argentina vs Austria team news
Argentina are expected to continue building their team around Messi, with Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez and Thiago Almada likely to form a midfield unit behind the captain.
Nahuel Molina is expected to start at right back, while Gonzalo Montiel is suffering from a hamstring injury. Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez should continue their partnership in central defense, while Lautaro Martinez will lead the line alongside Messi.
Austria are worried about Stefan Posch, who is suffering from a broken jaw and may be rested as a precaution. If unavailable, Konrad Laimer may switch to right back.
Nicolas Seiwald and Xaver Schlager are expected to keep their places in midfield, while Carney Chukwuemeka may continue in the 10 role behind the attack.
Sasa Kalajdzic could keep his place up front despite being sent off against Jordan, although veteran striker Marko Arnautovic is calling for a recall after scoring off the bench in the opening game.
Qualifying expectations for Argentina vs Austria
Argentina starting XI: In Martinez; Molina, Romero, L Martinez, Medina; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez, Almada; Messi, Martinez
Austria starting XI: Schlager; Laimer, Lienhart, Alaba, Mwene; Seiwald, X Schlager; Schmid, Chukwuemeka, Sabitzer; Kalajdzic
Where to watch Argentina vs Austria: TV channel, live streaming online
The game will begin on Monday, June 22 at Dallas Stadium. Kick-off at 18:00 BST.
In the UK, live World Cup matches are expected to be broadcast across the BBC, with streaming available via BBC iPlayer.
Argentina vs Austria statistics
- Argentina won their first Group J match 3-0 against Algeria
- Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick as Argentina won
- La Albiceleste have won each of their last eight matches in all competitions
- Argentina has won seven consecutive World Cup matches
- Austria beat Jordan 3-1 in their first group game
- The Das team scored more than one goal in their last 18 matches
- Austria appeared in the World Cup for the first time since 1998
- Argentina are the world champions after winning the 2022 tournament
- Austria have not reached the knockout stages of the World Cup since 1982
- The countries have met twice before, with Argentina winning 5-1 in 1980 before drawing 1-1 in 1990.
Argentina vs Austria prediction
Austria have become a more organized team under Rangnick and are likely to provide a tougher test than the Algeria they won in the opening round.
However, Argentina’s quality throughout the team, combined with Messi’s outstanding form, should prove decisive.
Expect a competitive contest, but the world champions look to be able to pick up another win and seal their place in the knockout round.
Prediction: Argentina 2-1 Austria
