Scaloni weighs up options in the national side for key Austria clash

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·21 Juni 2026

Scaloni weighs up options in the national side for key Austria clash

With the aim of taking a firm step toward qualification for the 2026 World Cup round of 16, the Argentina National Team is already getting ready for its second group-stage match. After training in Kansas with the peace of mind of having the full squad available, head coach Lionel Scaloni is considering making two changes to the starting lineup that will take the field this Monday in Dallas.

Changes under the spotlight: defense and attack

The coaching staff is weighing two main adjustments compared to the lineup that earned the first three points against Algeria:

Video OneFootball

Right back: Gonzalo Montiel, who is dealing with a muscle strain, is doubtful to remain in the starting eleven. In the latest training sessions, Nahuel Molina played in that area of the field, emerging as the natural replacement. However, Montiel’s physical condition in the hours leading up to the match will be decisive.
The focal point up front: The attack once again presents the coach with the classic dilemma. Although Lautaro Martínez started in the opener, Julián Álvarez has fully recovered from his discomfort and is battling neck and neck for a place in the starting lineup to bolster the attack.

The match against the European national team will be played this Monday at 2:00 p.m. (Argentina time). A victory would leave the national side very close to securing its ticket to the next stage of the World Cup.

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