Argentina vs Austria Preview, Prediction and Team News – FIFA World Cup 2026

Argentina Aim to Secure Knockout Spot Against Austria

Defending champions Argentina will look to book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 when they face Austria in a crucial Group G clash on Monday. Lionel Scaloni's side have made a strong start to their title defense and know that another victory would guarantee qualification for the knockout stages.

Fresh from a dominant win over Algeria, Argentina enter this contest full of confidence. Their talismanic captain Lionel Messi stole the headlines with a magnificent hat-trick, reminding the football world that he remains one of the game's most decisive players even at 38 years of age.

A win would secure Argentina's passage to the next round, while a draw would also leave them in an excellent position heading into their final group-stage fixture. Finishing top of Group G remains a priority, as it could provide a more favorable route through the knockout rounds.

Argentina Carry Strong Momentum

Argentina have looked every bit like defending world champions in recent months. Scaloni's men have won eight consecutive matches in all competitions, keeping six clean sheets during that impressive run.

Their defensive solidity continues to be one of their greatest strengths, while the attacking quality throughout the squad makes them a constant threat. Argentina have also won seven straight FIFA World Cup matches, highlighting their consistency on the biggest stage in international football.

The midfield trio of Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernandez has been instrumental in controlling games, while Messi continues to produce moments of magic in the final third.

With experience, quality and confidence throughout the squad, Argentina remain one of the favorites to lift the trophy once again.

Austria Dreaming of Historic Qualification

Austria arrive encouraged by their opening 3-1 victory over Jordan. Ralf Rangnick's side showed resilience and attacking intent, eventually sealing the result through a late penalty converted by veteran striker Marko Arnautovic.

While Austria occasionally looked vulnerable defensively, they remain one of Europe's most organized teams. They have conceded more than one goal in just one of their last 18 matches, underlining the discipline Rangnick has instilled since taking charge.

The Austrians are making their first FIFA World Cup appearance since 1998 and are aiming to reach the knockout rounds for the first time since 1982. A positive result against Argentina would significantly boost those ambitions.

Austria's aggressive pressing system and quick transitions could pose problems for the South American giants, especially if they can disrupt Argentina's rhythm in midfield.

Team News

Argentina

Lionel Messi is expected to lead the attack once again after his stunning hat-trick against Algeria.

Scaloni is likely to field a midfield featuring Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez and Thiago Almada. Nahuel Molina could start at right-back if Gonzalo Montiel is unable to recover from a hamstring injury.

Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez are expected to continue their partnership in central defense, with Emiliano Martinez retaining his place in goal.

Austria could be without defender Stefan Posch, who is currently dealing with a broken jaw. If he fails to recover in time, Konrad Laimer may be asked to fill the right-back role.

Nicolas Seiwald and Xaver Schlager are expected to provide stability in midfield, while Carney Chukwuemeka could operate behind the striker.

Marko Arnautovic's goal-scoring impact from the bench against Jordan may earn him a starting role ahead of Sasa Kalajdzic.

Head-to-Head Record

Argentina and Austria have met only twice in international football.

• Austria 1-1 Argentina (1990 Friendly)

• Argentina 5-1 Austria (1980 Friendly)

Argentina remain unbeaten against Austria and will be aiming to preserve that record.

Key Players to Watch

Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Messi is once again the focal point of Argentina's attack. Following his hat-trick against Algeria, the legendary captain is now within touching distance of another major World Cup milestone and remains capable of deciding matches on his own.

Marko Arnautovic (Austria)

Austria's experienced striker could be crucial if his side are to cause an upset. His physical presence, leadership and finishing ability provide Austria with a genuine threat in transition.

Match Prediction

Austria are a disciplined and well-drilled side under Rangnick, and they possess enough attacking quality to create opportunities on the counterattack. However, Argentina's superior quality, tournament experience and outstanding recent form should ultimately make the difference.

With Messi in inspired form and the defending champions eager to secure top spot in Group G, Argentina are expected to continue their winning run.

Prediction: Argentina 3-1 Austria

Argentina's attacking strength should prove too much for Austria over 90 minutes, with Messi likely to play another decisive role as the world champions move one step closer to the knockout stages.

Prediction: Argentina 3-1 Austria
Best Bet: Argentina to Win & Over 2.5 Goals
Expected Goalscorer: Lionel Messi
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 – Group G
Date: Monday, June 22, 2026