Messi's Argentina eye knockout spot as Austria pose stern test
Both teams sit on three points, with Argentina leading Group J on goal difference.
Defending champions Argentina will aim to continue their winning momentum when they face Austria in a key Group J clash in Dallas on Monday (22 June).
Lionel Messi once again stole the spotlight with a hat-trick in Argentina's opening win over Algeria, moving his World Cup tally to 16 goals and reaffirming his status as the team's focal point. The 38-year-old forward, playing his sixth World Cup, continues to inspire Argentina's title defence.
Austria, however, arrive in strong form after a 3-1 win over Jordan, with Ralf Rangnick's side banking on their organised pressing and collective structure to challenge the South Americans.
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Captain David Alaba has stressed that Austria's threat extends beyond individual names, as they target another strong group performance.
Both teams sit on three points, with Argentina leading Group J on goal difference. A win for either side would push them closer to the round of 32.
Argentina may be without Gonzalo Montiel due to a hamstring issue, while Austria could miss Stefan Posch after a jaw injury.
Probable XI
Argentina: Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Facundo Medina; Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández, Thiago Almada; Lionel Messi (C), Lautaro Martínez.
Austria: Alexander Schlager; Konrad Laimer, Philipp Lienhart, David Alaba (C), Philipp Mwene; Nicolas Seiwald, Xaver Schlager; Romano Schmid, Marcel Sabitzer, Carney Chukwuemeka; Sasa Kalajdzic.
