Argentina
World CupWhy this tip?
While Austria is well organized and will pose some problems for Argentineans, the South Americans definitely have an edge over them individually. This game is likely to be a tough one for both sides but eventually, Argentina will take command of things and create more chances than Austria. I see this match ending in favor of the defending champions 2-0.
Match Preview
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026
Matchday: Matchday 2
Date: 22 June 2026
Kick-off time: 19:00 (SA Time)
Venue: AT&T Stadium,Arlington, Texas
Match Details
Two in-form teams meet, when defending champions Argentina take on Austria. Both teams had excellent opening round victories. The South Americans were inspired by a Lionel Messi hattrick in their 3-0 victory over Algeria while Das Team also won 3-1 over Jordan with their record goal scorer, Marko Arnautovic also getting on the scoresheet. Both teams have quality across the field although Argentina are blessed with world class players like Messi, Alexis Mac Allister and Lautaro Martínez. There should be plenty of attacking quality in this match as both teams have goal scorers that have played at the top club teams in Europe.
Why This Match Matters
Argentina are top of the group, only by a +3-goal difference compared to Austria’s +2- goal difference. The victor of this match will in all likelihood be crowned group winners as both these teams will be expected to win their final match against the weaker teams in the group. Both teams will want to secure victory and book their spot in the knockout phase so they can look to rest some of their players in the final game.
Argentina vs Austria Head-to-Head Stats
It is quite strange that the very first competitive match between the sides will be the upcoming match. There was one friendly international between the side which ended in a 1-1 draw.
Previous Meetings
The only previous occasion these sides met was way back in 1990 with the match ending in a 1-1 draw so both sides will be eager to claim bragging rights with their first win. .
Argentina’s Recent Form
Argentina’s last five matches: WWWWW
Recent results include:
- 17/06/2026 (World Cup): Argentina 3-0 Algeria
- 10/06/2026 (Friendly): Argentina 3-0 Iceland
- 07/06/2026 (Friendly): Argentina 2-0 Honduras
- 01/04/2026 (Friendly): Argentina 5-0 Zambia
- 28/03/2026 (Friendly): Argentina 2-1 Mauritania
Recent form: Argentina have been one of the top teams on the planet since their victory in the 2022 World Cup. They are currently first of the FIFA rankings and came into this tournament as one of the favourites as their form in the last two years have been sublime. Argentina have won their last eight matches across all competitions and few would bet against them making it nine.
Austria’s Recent Form
Austria’s last five matches: DWWWW
Recent results include:
- 17/06/2026 (World Cup): Austria 3-1 Jordan
- 01/06/2026 (Friendly): Austria 1-0 Tunisia
- 31/03/2026 (Friendly): Austria 1-0 South Korea
- 27/03/2026 (Friendly): Austria 5-1 Ghana
- 18/11/2025 (World Cup): Austria 1-1 Bosnia & Herzegovina
Recent form: Austria topped their World Cup qualifying group so they have been in good form for the last year. They have only lost once in their last ten matches, a 1-0 defeat to Austria last year. They will be rank underdogs in this match but they will not be overawed by the occasion as they can match any side on their day.
Team News
Argentina Team News
Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni is unlikely to change a winning combination. They are likely to continue with their 4-4-2 that worked so well in the opener.
Injuries: There are no injury concerns for Argentina ahead of this match.
Suspensions: No suspensions
Key players to watch: Lionel Messi will again be the man to inspire their attack with his creativity and natural goal scoring ability. Lautaro Martínez remains their main goal threat, while Thiago Almada can provide support in the final third. In midfield, Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister will aim to control possession and dictate the tempo. Defensively, Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez will need to be alert against Austria’s attacking threats while the ever-reliable Emiliano Martínez will be the last line of defence.
Austria Team News
Austria manager Ralf Rangnick is likely to stick with their trusted 4-2-3-1 system. After his goal off the bench, Marko Arnautovic could possibly come into the starting XI.
Injuries: No injury concerns
Suspensions: No suspensions
Key players to watch: Striker Marko Arnautovic will be a key target for his side especially in the air as his aerial prowess is excellent. Captain David Alaba remains the key figure in defence as he will need to keep the potent forwards of Argentina at bay. Marcel Sabitzer’s creativity and long-range shooting make him a constant danger in attack, while Konrad Laimer’s energy and work rate will be vital in midfield battles. Goalkeeper Alexander Schlager may also have an important role to play if Austria come under sustained pressure from Argentina’s star-studded attack.
Predicted Lineups
Argentina Predicted XI
Emiliano Martínez, Gonzalo Montiel, Cristián Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Facundo Medina, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández, Rodrigo De Paul, Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez, Thiago Almada
Austria Predicted XI
Alexander Schlager, Stefan Posch, Philipp Lienhart, David Alaba, Phillipp Mwene, Romano Schmid, Konrad Laimer, Xaver Schlager, Nicolas Seiwald, Marcel Sabitzer, Marko Arnautovic
Best Betting Markets for Argentina vs Austria
Match Winner
Prediction: Argentina to win @ (1.58) at Hollywoodbets
Over/Under Goals
Prediction: Under 2.5 Goals @(1.86) at WSB
Both Teams to Score
Prediction: Both Teams to Score- No @ (1.77) at Betway
Anytime Goalscorer
Prediction: Messi to score anytime @ (1.93) at Easybet
Argentina vs Austria Prediction
Best Bet
Prediction: Argentina win and under 2.5 goals @(4.10) at Hollywoodbets
Correct Score Prediction
Prediction: Argentina 2-0 Austria @ (5.80) at Easybet
Match analysis and verdict
The Argentineans put up a professional performance in their first match as they emerged victorious over Algeria 3-0 and will certainly believe in continuing their great run. Lionel Messi is still the heart of Argentina’s attacking force while Lautaro Martínez and Thiago Almada are capable of doing wonders in attack. As far as the midfield area is concerned, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Rodrigo De Paul will look to control proceedings.
Austria also began their campaign on a positive note as they defeated Jordan 3-1 and showed very good form before this tournament started. Austrian defense can be counted on thanks to David Alaba while Marko Arnautovic is a proven striker with plenty of experience. Marcel Sabitzer and Konrad Laimer will do well in the midfield.
While Austria is well organized and will pose some problems for Argentina, the South Americans definitely have an edge over them individually. This game is likely to be a tough one for both sides but eventually, Argentina will take command of things and create more chances than Austria. I see this match ending in favor of the defending champions 2-0.
Prediction: Argentina 2 – 0 Austria
Writer / Betting tipster
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