Argentina starting lineup vs Austria confirmed as Lionel Messi named for FIFA World Cup 2026 clash
(Courtesy : Getty)
Argentina and Austria will face each other for the first time at the FIFA World Cup.
The stage is set for the FIFA World Cup clash between Argentina and Austria. The two sides will lock horns at the Dallas Stadium in Texas on Monday, June 22. Following their recent performances and dominant victory over Algeria in the first game, Argentina are seen as favourites to win.
However, Austria’s current form cannot be overlooked. Ralf Rangnick’s men stunned Jordan 3-1 in their opening game. Thus, the winner of the game will directly secure a spot in the last 32.
Lionel Messi showed his attacking prowess to help La Albiceleste win their opening game. However, his attacking partner, Lauturo Martinez, had only 21 touches on the ball with an xG of 0.12. The defending champions’ midfield gave a strong display, especially Rodrigo de Paul, who was involved in both attack and defence thanks to his high work rate.
Alregia managed to keep more possession, and their players had more touches in the opposition box too. However, they had zero shots on target. La Albiceleste gave a decent performance against their African rivals, but beyond the scoreboard, Lionel Scaloni would want his team to play better.
Also Read: Preview: Argentina vs Austria prediction, odds, where to watch, time | FIFA World Cup 2026
Argentina lineup for the FIFA World Cup match against Austria
Argentina XI (4-4-2): Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Facundo Medina; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister; Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez, Thiago Almada.
Thoughts on the line-up
Argentina’s lynchpin, Lionel Messi, will continue to lead the change from the front, and Lautaro Martínez will accompany him. Lionel Scaloni’s side will have the same midfield, consisting of Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister and Thiago Almada, that they had against Algeria in the opening fixture.
Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez will team up to form the formidable centre-back duo for the defending champion. Meanwhile, Nahuel Molina and Facundo Medina will feature as the fullbacks for Argentina against Ralf Rangnick’s Austria.
Emiliano Martinez, who wasn’t tested against Algeria, will also retain his position in the goal. However, against Austria, he might finally get to make a few saves.
When and where will the Argentina vs Austria game take place at the World Cup?
The game will be played at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Monday, June 22.
In which group are these two teams situated in the FIFA World Cup?
They are situated in Group J alongside Jordan and Algeria.
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