Argentina meet Austria in a Group J decider on June 22 with Messi chasing Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup goals record. Full preview, team news and betting tips.
Monday June 22 delivers the most anticipated group-stage fixture of the day as Argentina take on Austria in a winner-takes-all clash at AT&T Stadium in Dallas. Kick-off is at 6:00 PM WAT. Both teams won their openers and come into this match level on three points at the top of Group J. For Nigerian football fans, this is pure appointment viewing — and not just for the tactical battle. Lionel Messi stands one goal away from becoming the highest-scoring player in World Cup history.
When Messi pocketed a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 demolition of Algeria, he moved to 16 World Cup goals — level with Germany legend Miroslav Klose. The record has stood since Brazil 2014 and the football world has been waiting for Messi to surpass it ever since. Today could be the day. No pressure. No big deal. Just Lionel Messi doing Lionel Messi things.
It is worth noting how different these two players’ goal tallies were built. Klose was a target man whose goals came largely from close range. Messi’s 16 arrived in a wider variety of ways — penalties, free kicks, composed finishes, moments of individual brilliance against top-level international opposition. Record or no record, Messi’s World Cup legacy is already sealed. But goal 17 would make it official.
After matchday one, Group J looks tight at the top and wide open at the bottom.
A win today for either team secures a place in the Round of 32 regardless of the Algeria vs Jordan result. A draw likely keeps both through but neither will be in the mood for a point — Argentina want the group and Messi wants goals. Austria have the confidence of their Jordan victory and will fancy they can spring a surprise.
Argentina: Gonzalo Montiel was forced off at halftime against Algeria with a muscle injury. Nahuel Molina is expected to fill in at right back. The rest of the team selection revolves entirely around protecting and supplying Messi. Rodrigo De Paul provides the engine in midfield, with Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez and Thiago Almada completing a technical midfield four. Lautaro Martinez leads the line.
Austria: The injury blow for Austria is Stefan Posch, who fractured his jaw during the Jordan match. Konrad Laimer — normally a central midfielder — shifts to fullback to cover. Marko Arnautovic, who came off the bench against Jordan, is expected to start up front after Saša Kalajdžić struggled. David Alaba marshals the defence and will have a huge game to play in containing Argentina’s attacks.
Austria’s approach will be familiar to anyone who watched them navigate qualifying. They defend deep, keep their shape compact, and look to frustrate opponents before hitting on the counter-attack. Against Argentina, that means trying to limit Messi’s touches in dangerous areas while staying disciplined in the press.
The problem is that Argentina’s midfield is one of the deepest in the tournament. De Paul’s relentless running, Mac Allister’s composure, and Enzo Fernandez’s range of passing mean Austria will struggle to press efficiently. At some point, gaps will appear, and when they do Messi will find them.
Alaba is the key figure for Austria. He must organise the backline, win aerial duels against Lautaro Martinez, and be alert to Messi dropping deep to receive. It is a lot to ask of any defender. If Alaba goes missing or picks up an early yellow card, Austria’s structure risks unravelling.
These two sides rarely meet. Their World Cup history is limited. What matters more is the current form: Argentina have won four consecutive matches including the Algeria demolition. Austria have won two from two including a qualifier run. Neither side has much weakness to exploit — except for Austria’s injury concerns.
Argentina to Win — 1.55 (Bet9ja)
The quality gap and Messi’s goalscoring form make Argentina the standout bet. We expect Argentina to win even if Austria make them work for it.
Over 2.5 Goals — 1.75 (SportyBet)
Both teams scored freely in their openers. Argentina produced three and Austria three in their respective matches. With Messi in the mood and Argentina’s quality in attack, goals are likely.
Messi to Score Anytime — 2.20 (Bet9ja)
Messi is in outstanding form. He has scored in three consecutive World Cup games and chasing a record will sharpen his focus. If you want a specific goalscorer market, Messi anytime is excellent value at 2.20.
Correct Score: Argentina 2-0 Austria — 5.00 (SportyBet)
A tight first half followed by Argentina turning the screw in the second half feels the most likely script. 2-0 is a reasonable clean sheet score for those who enjoy a correct score market.
Argentina are too good in attack to be shut out by an Austria side weakened by injury in defence. Messi will get his goal — and very possibly his record. Austria will score at least once given their quality on the counter and the open nature of the game. Argentina 2-1.
Kick-off: 6:00 PM WAT, Monday June 22, AT&T Stadium Dallas.
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