Argentina Can Advance To The Knockouts With A World Cup Group J Win Against Austria
Dallas Stadium, USA | 2026 World Cup Group J | Monday, June 22 | 6pm BST
Ahead of the next installment of the Lionel Messi show, BetVictor News delivers the in-depth Argentina vs Austria preview – including the score prediction, overall H2H record, team news, latest odds, the best betting angles and more.
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Argentina Vs Austria Preview
Fresh after his stunning hat-trick against Algeria, Lionel Messi has now scored the most World Cup goals in history. The awesome Argentine is level with Germany legend Miroslav Klose on 16 but can become the outright leader if he nets just once in Dallas.
The Argentina vs Austria odds strongly lean towards a White and Sky Blue victory but the Europeans are certainly no pushovers. Under the guidance of former Man Utd boss Ralf Rangnick, the Austrians brushed aside Jordan 3-1 last time out.
It makes for an intriguing clash on MD2 and although our Argentina World Cup preview played down their overall chances, a fine win here will make a number of football fans take notice of the fine work Lionel Scaloni is doing with an ageing squad.
Argentina Vs Austria H2H Record
There has only been two previous meetings between Argentina and Austria. The first in 1980 ended in a resounding win for the South Americans when a certain Diego Maradona scored his one and only international hat-trick in a 5-1 trouncing.
In 1990, the two played out a 1-1 draw. Maradona didn’t net on this occasion but he did lay on an assist for Jorge Burruchaga who cancelled out Manfred Zsak’s early opener.
Argentina vs Austria H2H record:
- May 03, 1990: Austria 1-1 Argentina (Friendly)
- May 21, 1980: Austria 1-5 Argentina (Friendly)
Argentina Vs Austria Team News
Now that any Lionel Messi and Argentina doubters were quietly humbled on MD1, the Argentines are set to play a midfield quartet of Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez and Thiago Almada to accommodate the Inter Miami star. Nahuel Molina is likely to start at RB ahead of Gonzalo Montiel.
Meanwhile, Austria also have a right-back injury to navigate. Konrad Laimer is in line to start from the off over Stefan Posch who has a broken jaw. Carney Chukwuemeka will keep the number 10 role whereas veteran Marko Arnautovic is pushing hard for a start. But may be utilised from the bench again.
Argentina’s last six in all comps:
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Austria’s last six in all comps:
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Argentina Vs Austria Predicted Lineups
Argentina predicted lineup:
E Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li Martinez, Medina; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez, Almada; Messi, La Martinez
Austria predicted lineup:
A Schlager; Laimer, Lienhart, Alaba, Mwene; Seiwald, X Schlager; Schmid, Chukwuemeka, Sabitzer; Kalajdzic
Argentina vs Austria TV Channel, Live Streaming And Radio
Argentina vs Austria is available to watch live in the UK on BBC One (kick-off 6pm). Streaming is also available on BBC iPlayer and on the BBC Sport website. Followers can also tune in via BBC Radio 5 Live.
*A valid TV license is required to watch live in the UK
Argentina Vs Austria Betting Angles
Key Match Stats
- This will be the first-ever competitive meeting and first-ever World Cup clash between Argentina and Austria
- Argentina World Cup stats – Argentina have won their last eight on the bounce and conceded just once in that run (vs Mauritania)
- Austria World Cup stats – Austria have won five of their last six internationals, drawing the other (1-1 vs Bosnia)
Top Betting Angles for Argentina vs Austria
Over 2.5 goals: Argentina are looking ominous after Lionel Messi’s treble and hell be gunning to fire again. Online at 9/10.
BTTS (No): The reigning champions have shipped just once in their last eight. Available at 7/10.
Anytime goalscorers: Lionel Messi (20/23) Julian Alvarez (7/5), Lautaro Martinez (7/5) and Thiago Almada (13/5) all offer value.
Argentina Vs Austria Prediction
Although Austria are a stronger opponent than Algeria, we still fully expect Argentina to claim back-to-back wins. Especially with Lionel Messi brimming with confidence after his hat-trick against the North Africans last week.
Prediction: Argentina 3-0 Austria (17/2)
If you intend to bet on Argentina vs Austria then please take the time to read through BetVictor’s safe and responsible gambling page which will provide good advice on how to stay in control when betting on football.
Any betting decisions should be made responsibly and there are no guarantees when it comes to match outcomes. All odds correct as of 10:30am on June 22, 2026 and are subject to change.
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