Argentina
- Argentina have won their last five competitive games, scoring 14 goals and conceding just two.
- Argentina head into Monday's clash with Austria on the back of a dominant 3-0 win over Algeria at the weekend.
- Lionel Messi starred in that win and will be the focus of attention once more in Dallas, though Argentina possess a number of other attacking talents capable of making a mark on the game.
- They are at their best when in possession, patiently building up and dominating territory before Messi bursts forward and makes things happen.
- They'll have a different test on Monday against an Austria side with their own agenda.
Austria
- Austria have won four on the spin, and are unbeaten in five overall (W4, D1), scoring ten goals and allowing two.
- Austria's gegenpressing style saw them dispatching Jordan 3-1 in their opening game, and boss Ralf Rangnick has instilled a similar high-energy, relentless pressing philosophy in his side as he has with his German clubs.
- While Argentina are a possession side with a slick, controlled nature, Austria are all about high tempo, turnovers, and rapid vertical runs when in possession.
Argentina
- He has already scored three goals in one World Cup game and is on five goals in his last five appearances for his country, so he is a clear pick for an anytime goalscorer.
- Nico Gonzalez has been another key outlet for Argentina, providing some of his trademark creativity, and the Sevilla man also has one assist to his name at the World Cup after laying off for Messi's opener against Algeria.
Austria
- Marko Arnautovic has been a reliable outlet for Austria and opened his account for the tournament in their win over Jordan.
- Marcel Sabitzer has three goals in Austria's current unbeaten run and offers a good bit of craft and tenacity in the number ten role, while Xaver Schlager is a hardworking anchor for Austria, offering an assist so far in this World Cup.
Betting Insights
- With this mind, over 2.5 goals at 1.97 looks a decent pick, while Both Teams to Score - Yes at 1.94 will be a winner if both sides come out and have a crack.
- He has already scored three goals in one World Cup game and is on five goals in his last five appearances for his country, so he is a clear pick for an anytime goalscorer.
Prediction
This clash will be a fascinating battle between the two styles, though it's likely to be one that suits Argentina more, as their possession play allows them to keep the ball away from their opponents.
