Argentina v Austria
Match details
- Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026
- Matchday: Group J, Matchday 2
- Date: Monday, June 22, 2026
- Kick-off time: 8:00 PM EAT
- Venue: Dallas Stadium, Arlington, USA
Why this match matters
Both teams earned six points in their initial group-stage fixtures, so the winner of this match will take sole control of the group standings and will likely advance to the Round-of-16 as a result.
In their first Group C fixture, Argentina dominated Algerian opponent, winning the match 3-0. The match provided evidence of Argentina’s skill in attack and its strong organizational structure, which allowed the team to utilize each player effectively and dominate play. This win provided a clear reason as to why many experts believe that Argentina can reach the end of the competition. They successfully controlled possession throughout the entire ninety minutes of the contest and were able to limit their opponents to small chances of scoring.
Argentina vs Austria head-to-head stats
Previous meetings
- Argentina vs Austria 1:1
- Argentina vs Austria 5:1
Head-to-head record
Argentina and Austria have met several times in the past, but the most recent meeting occurred in May 1990. At that time, Austria was able to earn a point against a talented Argentine side by earning a tie in their last preparation match prior to competing in the World Cup in Italy. Prior to that encounter, Argentina defeated Austria 5-1 in an exhibition match held in 1980.
Their next match (this tournament fixture) is their first competitive meeting. Therefore, past encounters do not offer insight into how their modern competitive match will develop. However, historically, Argentina has enjoyed a strong success rate against European-based teams within group stages of major tournaments.
Argentina recent form
Argentina ‘s last five matches
- Argentina vs Algeria 3:0
- Argentina vs Iceland 3:0
- Argentina vs Honduras 2:0
- Argentina vs Zambia 5:0
- Argentina vs France 3:3 (4:2 pens)
Goals scored and conceded
Argentina’s attacking unit produces an average of over two goals per game due to creative production out of midfield and world class finishers. In their first group-stage fixture against Algeria, Argentina displayed excellent fluidity in creating offensive combinations resulting in three goals without having to exert themselves excessively.
Key trends from recent matches
On defense, Argentina has created an almost impenetrable wall that is difficult for opponents to breach during big-time tournaments. They produced a clean sheet against Algeria in their first tournament match and continued their impressive defensive trend in recent big-time competitions. During those contests they have given up very few goals.
Austria recent form
Austria ‘s last five matches
- Austria vs Jordan 3:1
- Switzerland vs Austria 1:1
- Austria vs Serbia 2:1
- Austria vs Turkey 6:1
- Austria vs Germany 2:0
Goals scored and conceded
Argentina, while enjoying a very exciting brand of football, has evolved into a very attack-minded side which creates goals. Their 3-nil win over Jordan was evidence of their capacity to cause problems for the defense of any side in the world.
Their wide players love to get down the flanks and create opportunities and are extremely effective at creating goals from dead ball situations. Since the summer they average nearly two goals per game in competitive action.
However, the same front foot mentality that creates so many opportunities also leaves the Austrian defense exposed to rapid transition attacks.
Key trends from recent matches
Since the summer Das Team has experienced a very strong run of results, having remained undefeated in 4 of its last 5 internationals. Most recently, Das Team’s competitive history is defined by high-scoring matches; the teams’ direct style ensures that it is unusual for matches to be decided in low-scoring draws. As a result of their direct style, Das Team has been able to generate a lot of momentum when playing away from home and has found the back of the net against top tier countries.
One of the defining characteristics of the Austrian national team is the amount of times that both sides have scored in each other’s nets. A combination of their defensive weaknesses and attacking prowess means that Das Team does not usually obtain clean sheets. Despite obtaining clean sheets being relatively rare, Das Team finds a way to score almost every time.
Team news
Argentina team news
Lionel Scaloni has stated that he has a full strength squad available to face Austria after their victory over Jordan. Therefore, there are no injuries or suspensions to report going into this critical clash and Scaloni will select his strongest eleven. With such a large pool of talent to choose from, Argentina will maintain an extraordinary high level of energy throughout the 90 minutes.
Messi continues to be the conductor of Argentina’s attack and as such will continue to carry the load on the attacking flank. Alvarez provides support for Messi in the final third with his tireless work ethic and clever movement allowing late runners to find space behind him.
Austria team news
Following their victory over Jordan, there are no suspensions for the manager to worry about and therefore he can deploy his preferred formation. The Austrians will need to be at the pinnacle of fitness to match the quality that Argentina possess.
Marcel Sabitzer is Austria’s primary midfielder and is responsible for pushing the team forward and causing disruption to Argentina’s possession based build-up. In the attacking department Baumgartner will aim to use his directness and shooting range from distance to identify and capitalize on any gaps left open by Argentina’s defenders.
Predicted lineups
Argentina predicted XI
Argentina probable XI: E Martinez, Molina, Romero, Li Martinez, Medina, De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez, Almada, Messi, La Martinez
Austria predicted XI
Austria probable XI: A Schlager, Laimer, Lienhart, Alaba, Mwene, Seiwald, X Schlager, Schmid, Chukwuemeka, Sabitzer, Kalajdzic
Best betting markets for Argentina vs Austria
Tip 1: Argentina Win
Argentina have far too much quality, experience and balance in terms of tactics compared to a spirited yet defensively vulnerable Austrian side. It would be reasonable to expect Argentina to dominate the midfield area and take all three points without issue.
Tip 2: GG (Both Teams to Score)
Austria have a very effective pressing system and high class attackers who can beat any defense if they are on form. Due to their impressive scoring statistics in competitive action recently, it is highly likely that Austria will find the back of the net regardless of whether they lose or draw.
Tip 3: O2.5 (Over 2.5 Goals)
As previously mentioned, both sides were extremely positive in their respective opening round matches and shared a combined total of six goals between them. This match has all the makings of an open, attacking affair with numerous chances at both ends.
Tip 4: Argentina To Score First
Traditionally, South America’s finest teams begin their tournament matches with huge amounts of energy and look to quickly put the match beyond doubt. As a result, their ability to dominate possession during the early stages of the match gives them a big advantage in terms of breaking the deadlock in this fixture.
Where to bet on Argentina vs Austria
Argentina vs Austria prediction
Best bet
The top bet for this highly publicized encounter is a combination of an Argentina win along with a suitable number of goals being scored in the match. While Austria may provide a significant challenge through their high-pressing style and physical nature, Argentina’s technical superiority will enable them to effectively navigate through the press and ultimately triumph in what should be an entertaining contest.
Correct score prediction
Taking into consideration both teams’ tactical approaches, a 3-1 win for Argentina appears to be one of the most logical outcomes for this match. The World Champions have demonstrated that they can create goals at ease when provided with space, whilst Austria’s high-pressing defense will undoubtedly leave gaps for the likes of Messi and Alvarez to target.
Match analysis and verdict
The opening period of the match will likely see Austria apply pressure on Argentina, attempting to force mistakes in precarious areas of the pitch. However, Scaloni’s men are known for their composure under pressure and have an elite quality midfield unit that can bypass the initial press and initiate devastating counter-attacks.

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