- Argentina predicted lineup: Lionel Messi is expected to lead the defending champions attack with Emilliano Martinez set to organize the defense line.
- The match kicks off on Monday, June 22 at 8:00 PM EAT.
- Following an opening-round win that saw Messi score a hattrick,another win would see Argentina book a last 32 spot.
Argentina head into their second Group J clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Argentina with confidence sky-high following a dominant 3-0 win over Algeria in their opening fixture.
Lionel Scaloni’s men were ruthless in front of goal, with Lionel Messi stealing the headlines once again, and the world champions now shift focus to a tricky test against Austria.
Despite the strong start, Scaloni is not expected to overhaul his side. The Argentine coach is likely to rely on continuity, trusting the same spine that delivered a convincing performance in the opener, with only one or two forced adjustments due to fitness concerns.
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In goal, Emiliano Martínez remains untouchable. The Aston Villa shot-stopper continues to be Argentina’s defensive assurance, offering command in the box, elite reflexes, and big-game mentality that has defined his international career.
The backline is expected to see a slight tweak at right-back, with Nahuel Molina tipped to replace Gonzalo Montiel, who picked up a knock in the first match.
At centre-back, Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez should continue their partnership, combining aggression with composure in possession.
On the left, Facundo Medina is likely to keep his place after a composed display marked by excellent distribution and defensive discipline.
In midfield, Scaloni is expected to stick with his trusted trio. Rodrigo De Paul will operate as the engine, providing pressing intensity and forward passes between the lines.
Alexis Mac Allister adds balance and control, linking phases of play with intelligence and work rate. Enzo Fernández remains the deepest creative outlet, dictating tempo and progressing the ball with his trademark vision.
The attacking line is where Argentina’s biggest threat lies. Lionel Messi is set to start once again on the right side of a fluid front three.
Even at this stage of his career, he remains the focal point of Argentina’s attacking structure, drifting centrally to orchestrate and finish chances.
On the left wing, Nicolás González is expected to be rewarded with a start after his impactful cameo in the opening game, where he provided energy, width, and an assist. His direct style offers Argentina a different dimension in transition.
Up front, the debate continues between Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez. However, Álvarez is slightly favoured to lead the line after Lautaro struggled to impose himself in the opener.
Álvarez’s movement, pressing from the front, and link-up play could prove crucial against an organised Austrian defence.
Argentina predicted lineup
Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Facundo Medina; Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández; Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez, Nicolás González.
Argentina will be aiming for another controlled, professional performance to edge closer to qualification, but Scaloni will know that Austria’s compact structure and physical approach could demand greater efficiency in the final third.
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