José López, Flaco López from Palmeiras, represents one of the offensive alternatives on the Argentine national team’s radar and could gain minutes this Monday (22), at 2pm (Brasília time), against Austria, at the AT&T Stadium, in Arlington (Texas), in the second round of Group J of the 2026 World Cup. The center forward, with an eye for goal and good positioning, is going through a good phase in Brazilian football.
After the 3-0 victory over Algeria, Argentina leads the group with three points. A victory today practically guarantees first place, with Flaco López being able to be used to provide more presence in the area.
Austria organizes defense to contain possible López entries
Austria debuted with a 3-1 victory over Jordan and has three points. Under Ralf Rangnick, the European team maintains a compact defense to neutralize Argentine references, including possible arrivals from Flaco López from Palmeiras.
The game can open up space for the attacker to explore his physical strength and opportunism inside the area.
Probable lineup and role of Flaco López
Scaloni should start with: Emiliano Martínez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martínez and Medina; DePaul, Enzo Fernández, Mac Allister; Messi, Julián Álvarez and Nico González (or variations). Flaco López appears as a strong option on the bench for the second half, bringing the profile of a classic center forward.
For Austria: Schlager; Posch, Lienhart, Alaba, Mwene; Laimer, X. Schlager, Seiwald, Sabitzer, Schmid; Arnautović. The Austrian defense will need to pay attention to López’s finishing power.
Palmeiras’ Flaco López with morale to help Argentina
José López is experiencing a positive moment at Palmeiras and his call-up/participation reflects the depth of the Argentine attack. His style of play complements Scaloni’s options in the quest for a second title.
Scaloni manages the attack with several alternatives, while Rangnick prepares the team for all threats.
Where to watch live:TV Globo, SBT, SporTV, CazéTV (Disney+), Globoplay and GE TV.