The Argentinians have won everything possible – the previous World Cup and, twice already, the Copa America. In the qualifiers, they also topped their group. Then Messi and company continued their winning streak in friendly matches. Most recently, they routed Iceland. Starting the title defense against Algeria, they repeated the 3-0 scoreline, with Leo netting a hat-trick.
The Austrians are finally returning to the World Cup – for the first time this century. They won their group, collecting nineteen points in eight matches – two more than their closest rival, Bosnia. They had only victories in their friendlies. In the first round, debutants Jordan managed to equalize after the break. But Austria eventually won 3-1.
The world champions boast an impressive 2.7 goals scored per match while conceding only 0.2. The Europeans are also doing well: 2.6 goals scored and 0.5 conceded per game.
Previous Matches: Argentina vs Austria
This will be the first head-to-head meeting between the sides.
Rangnick’s men are solid, but not enough to take points from the main tournament favorite. The nominal hosts are expected to win (odds – 1.60).
Argentina vs Austria: Key Statistics and Trends
Argentina have won nine of their last ten matches
10% of Argentina’s matches end with both teams scoring and the average total goals per match is 2.9
Austria have won ten of their last twelve matches
40% of Austria’s matches end with both teams scoring and the average total goals per match is 3.1
Argentina vs Austria: Possible Starting Lineups
Argentina plays in a 1-4-4-2 formation (possible lineup): Emiliano Martínez – Montiel, Lisandro Martínez, Romero, Medina – De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernández, Messi – Almada, Lautaro Martínez. Balerdi and Tagliafico are out.
Austria plays in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (possible lineup): A. Schlager – Mwene, Alaba, Lienhart, Posch – K. Schlager, Seiwald – Sabitzer, Schmid, Laimer – Arnautović. Baumgartner is sidelined with a serious injury.
