Austria XI vs Argentina – Predicted lineup and team news

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·22 Juni 2026

Austria XI vs Argentina – Predicted lineup and team news

Austria head into Monday’s Group J fixture knowing that a positive result against the defending champions would put them on the verge of the knockout rounds.

Ralf Rangnick’s side claimed a 3-1 win over Jordan in their opener, taking the lead through Romano Schmid before Jordan levelled, with a Yazan Al-Arab own goal and a stoppage-time Arnautovic penalty ultimately sealing all three points.

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That win leaves Das Team level with Argentina at the top of Group J. Facing the world champions is a different proposition entirely, but Rangnick will back his side’s pressing system and defensive organisation to keep them competitive.

Austria team news

Rangnick faces one significant defensive problem heading into the fixture. First-choice right-back Stefan Posch has been ruled out with a broken jaw, with Konrad Laimer the likeliest candidate to shift into the back four and cover that position. Skipper David Alaba partners Philipp Lienhart at centre-back, with Philipp Mwene at left-back. Alexander Schlager continues in goal.

Nicolas Seiwald and Xaver Schlager form the midfield double pivot, tasked with tracking Argentina’s runners and limiting the space available to Messi and his supporting cast.

Carney Chukwuemeka, who came off the bench against Jordan, could be handed a more prominent creative role in the final third — though Rangnick may again opt to use him as an impact substitute.

Romano Schmid and Marcel Sabitzer provide width and tactical discipline on either flank. Sasa Kalajdzic leads the line, with veteran Marko Arnautovic — who scored the crucial stoppage-time penalty against Jordan — a potent option from the bench.

Austria predicted lineup

Austria possible starting XI: Alexander Schlager; Laimer, Lienhart, Alaba, Mwene; Seiwald, Xaver Schlager; Schmid, Chukwuemeka, Sabitzer; Kalajdzic