Argentina enters as a big favorite against Austria this Monday (22), at 2pm (Brasília time), at the AT&T Stadium, in Arlington, in the second round of Group J of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After convincing victories in the debut, the majority guess points to a new triumph for the world champion, which could secure a place in the round of 16 in this match.
Main guess
Argentina 2-0 Austria. Lionel Scaloni’s team showed defensive solidity and offensive power in the 3-0 victory over Algeria. Austria beat Jordan 3-1, but should feel the difference in level. Argentine favoritism appears clear in the bookmakers, with odds around 1.50 for an Albiceleste victory.
Other predictions and markets
- Messi scores at any time: good option, especially after the hat-trick on his debut. He seeks to take on the record as the highest scorer in the history of World Cups.
- Do both teams score? No: Argentina have not conceded goals so far and have one of the best defenses in the tournament.
- Over 2.5 goals: possible, but the most conservative guess is over 1.5.
- Most likely exact score: 2-0 or 2-1 for Argentina.
Analysis of likely lineups
Scaloni must repeat the winning base: Emiliano Martínez; Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Facundo Medina; De Paul, Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández, Thiago Almada; Messi and Lautaro Martinez. The team plays with high intensity and quick transitions.
Ralf Rangnick, in turn, maintains confidence in the team that beat Jordan: Schlager; Posch, Alaba, Lienhart, Mwene; Laimer, Seiwald, Sabitzer, Schmid; Arnautović. Austria is betting on counterattacks and the experience of its main names, but it will have work to break through the Argentine defense.
Why Argentina must win
In addition to the superior squad and the moment experienced, Albiceleste plays with the massive support of the fans on American soil. A victory practically guarantees early classification in the group, with only the game against Jordan remaining. Austria needs an impressive result to dream of leadership.
The referee will be Amin Mohamed Omar. The stadium should register a large audience with a predominance of Argentines.
Where to watch live
Exclusive broadcast of SBT in Brazil, in real time on ge.globo.