2026 World Cup: Argentina faces Austria, Lautaro Martinez with Messi on the front line
June 24, 2026 · Global
Argentina faces Austria in a crucial 2026 World Cup match, with Lautaro Martinez and Lionel Messi spearheading the attack. Both of them are ambitious to win to ensure progress to the round of 32.
Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez leads the attack alongside Lionel Messi as Argentina face Austria at the 2026 World Cup, in a duel for top spot in Group J. The match kicks off in Dallas at 18.00 UK time (19.00 CEST, 12.00 local time). This match will determine who will win the group, where Argentina previously won 3-0 over Algeria thanks to a hat-trick scored by Messi, while Austria also managed to beat Jordan with a score of 3-1 in their first match. Whoever picks up three points in this match will almost certainly secure their place in the last 32. Inter captain Lautaro Martinez, hoping to score his first goal of the tournament, partners Messi again up front for Lionel Scaloni's side, with Como talent Nico Paz on the bench. The only change from the first game was former Udinese full-back Nahuel Molina, who replaced Gonzalo Montiel. Argentina is also seeking to retain the World Cup trophy, while commemorating the 40th anniversary of Diego Armando Maradona's famous 'Hand of God' goal against England in the 1986 World Cup.
Lineup: Argentina: E. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Medina; De Paul, Fernandez, Mac Allister; Almada; Messi, Lautaro Martinez. Austria: A. Schlager; Danso, Posch, Alaba; Laimer, Seiwald, X. Schlager, Wanner; Sabitzer; Schmid, Gregoritsch.