Argentina will look to secure their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they face Austria at Dallas Stadium on Monday.
The reigning world champions opened their campaign in emphatic fashion with a 3-0 victory over Algeria, inspired by a sensational hat-trick from Lionel Messi. The Argentine captain once again stole the headlines, moving level with Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals.
Messi now stands just one goal away from becoming the outright highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, adding another remarkable milestone to an already legendary career.
Austria also began their campaign with victory, defeating Jordan 3-1 to move into second place in Group J. However, the scoreline was more comfortable than the performance suggested.
An own goal from Yazan Abu Al-Arab restored Austria’s lead in the 76th minute after Jordan had equalised early in the second half, before Marko Arnautović sealed the win with a stoppage-time penalty.
Team News
Argentina’s team selection will be entirely focused on platforming Messi, so expect to see a midfield four stationed behind him featuring Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez and Thiago Almada.
Austria right-back Stefan Posch is a major doubt due to a broken jaw, and while he does not require surgery, it would be sensible to protect him by using Konrad Laimer in his place.
Possible Lineups
Argentina possible starting lineup:
E Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li Martinez, Medina; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez, Almada; Messi, La Martinez
Austria possible starting lineup:
A Schlager; Laimer, Lienhart, Alaba, Mwene; Seiwald, X Schlager; Schmid, Chukwuemeka, Sabitzer; Kalajdzic
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport |
| Live Stream | DSTV stream |
| Kick-off Time | 18:00 (WAT) |
Match predictions
Softfootball predicts Argentina 3-1 Austria
Austria will almost certainly prove more difficult to break down than Algeria, though the genius of Messi may be enough to get the better of their defence.
