World Cup 2026: Argentina chase second win over Austria with XI changes

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·22. Juni 2026

World Cup 2026: Argentina chase second win over Austria with XI changes

Argentina will play its second Group J match this Monday against Austria. After opening with a solid 3-0 win over Algeria, Lionel Scaloni’s team will look for another victory at Dallas Stadium that would leave it just one step away from qualifying for the round of 32.

The match will kick off at 2:00 p.m. (Argentina time). It will be officiated by Egyptian referee Amin Mohamad Omar, with Spain’s Diego Sánchez on VAR duty. Live coverage will be provided by Telefe, TV Pública, ESPN, and DSports.

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The changes Scaloni is considering

The coaching staff is evaluating several changes to the starting eleven compared to the opener:Right-back: Nahuel Molina is shaping up to start ahead of Gonzalo Montiel. The Sevilla defender trained separately during the week due to a physical issue and, although he has rejoined the group, he would begin on the bench.

Left-back: Nicolás Tagliafico has recovered, but the coaching staff prefers not to risk him. Facundo Medina would keep his place after a strong debut, completing the defense alongside Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez.
Midfield and wingers: With Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister confirmed, the doubt is between Thiago Almada and Nicolás González. The Juventus player has the edge because of his physical intensity against Austria’s high press.
Forward line: Lautaro Martínez is competing for the spot with Julián Álvarez. The Atlético de Madrid striker arrived only just fit after an ankle injury, and Scaloni will decide the starter based on the physical responses from the final training session.

Match details and possible lineups

Tournament: 2026 World Cup – Group J – Matchday 2

Probable lineups

Argentina: Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Facundo Medina; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Thiago Almada or Nicolás González; Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez or Julián Álvarez. Head coach: Lionel Scaloni.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.