Lionel Messi will hope to guide Argentina into the knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup when they face Austria at Dallas Stadium on Monday.The reigning champions sit top of Group J following a convincing opening win, while Austria also arrive on three points after defeating Jordan.Verdict: Argentina winBest odds: 61/100Bookmaker: 22betArgentinaAny lingering doubts about Argentina’s ability to defend their World Cup crown were emphatically dispelled in their opening match, as Lionel Messi delivered a stunning hat‑trick in a 3–0 victory over Algeria. The 38‑year‑old continues to define the national side, and he now stands just one goal away from breaking Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record.Despite that individual milestone looming, Argentina’s immediate priority is securing progression to the round of 32. A win here would guarantee qualification, while even a draw would almost certainly suffice given the group standings.Lionel Scaloni’s team come into the clash in impressive form, having won all of their last eight matches while keeping clean sheets in six of those games. Their recent consistency has been built on both attacking fluency and defensive solidity, making them a formidable opponent at this stage of the tournament.Team NewsTactically, Argentina remain structured around maximising Messi’s influence. The midfield quartet of Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández and Thiago Almada is expected to provide both balance and creativity behind him.There is one minor concern in defence, with Gonzalo Montiel a doubt due to a hamstring issue. As a result, Nahuel Molina could start at right-back. Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez are set to continue in central defence, offering a combination of physicality and ball progression.With a full-strength attack and only minor injury worries, Argentina appear well positioned to maintain their strong start.AustriaAustria’s opening victory over Jordan was hard-earned rather than dominant. Ralf Rangnick’s side had to rely on fine margins, with an own goal giving them a crucial lead before Marko Arnautović sealed the result with a late penalty.While the attacking output was ultimately sufficient, Rangnick will be concerned about defensive lapses—particularly the equaliser conceded, which exposed vulnerabilities during a high press.Even so, Austria can take confidence from their broader defensive record, having conceded more than once in only one of their last 18 matches. They have also shown attacking promise, scoring at least twice in four of their last six competitive fixtures.The stakes are high heading into this clash. Austria are on the verge of reaching the knockout rounds of a World Cup for the first time since 1982, and doing so in their first appearance since 1998 would represent a major achievement for the national team.Team NewsStefan Posch is a major doubt due to a broken jaw, and it would be sensible to rest him, meaning Konrad Laimer is expected to fill in at right-back.In midfield, the partnership of Nicolas Seiwald and Xaver Schlager should remain intact, providing stability behind attacking midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka. Up front, Saša Kalajdžic will need to improve after being substituted at half-time in the opener, particularly with Arnautović pushing for a starting role after his impact from the bench.Austria’s structure and discipline will be tested against a far more potent opponent in Argentina.Key Factors to ConsiderArgentina are on an eight-match winning streak, underlining strong momentum.Lionel Messi is in exceptional form and closing in on a historic World Cup record.Austria’s defensive organisation has been solid but showed weaknesses under pressure in their opener.Gonzalo Montiel’s injury doubt could slightly disrupt Argentina’s defensive balance.Austria possess attacking threats, with Arnautović offering experience and end product.Argentina’s midfield superiority and control of possession could dictate the tempo of the game.ConclusionAustria are likely to offer a sterner defensive challenge than Algeria, and their structure could limit Argentina for periods of the match. However, maintaining that resistance over 90 minutes against a side of Argentina’s quality will be extremely difficult.With Messi in inspired form and supported by a well-balanced squad, the reigning champions have both the experience and firepower to break through. Austria may find moments of their own, but Argentina’s consistency and attacking edge should prove decisive.La Albiceleste are therefore expected to secure the victory needed to confirm their place in the knockout stage and continue their strong defence of the title.Verdict: Argentina winBest odds: 61/100Bookmaker: 22betThe post Prediction: Argentina vs Austria appeared first on SoccerNews.