Austria vs. Argentina Prediction: FIFA World Cup Betting Odds and Picks
Both nations arrive with confidence after convincing victories in their tournament openers. Argentina kicked off their World Cup campaign with a comfortable 3-0 win over Algeria, while Austria impressed with a disciplined and energetic display in a 3-1 success against Jordan.
With both teams sitting on three points, this contest could go a long way toward determining who tops Group J. Argentina will look to dominate possession, while Austria will attempt to unsettle the favourites with their aggressive pressing system and quick transitions. Here’s a closer look at the matchup, along with my Argentina vs Austria predictions.
Check out our full list of live 2026 World Cup betting odds.
Argentina vs. Austria World Cup how to watch & match info
- Time: Monday, June 22 at 1:00 PM ET
- Stadium: Dallas Stadium (Arlington, Texas)
- TV Channel: TSN
- Weather: The game will be played indoors, but outside it will be 34.4°C, partly sunny with a thunderstorm; breezy in the morning; warm conditions outside the stadium during the soccer match
Argentina vs. Austria betting odds
Argentina is priced at -160 to claim all three points, reflecting both their status as reigning World Cup holders and the top-ranked team in the world. Austria enters as a +500 outsider, while the draw is listed at +290.
Oddsmakers are expecting a relatively controlled contest despite both sides scoring three goals in their opening matches. Under 2.5 goals is currently favoured at -120 odds, while Over 2.5 goals can be backed at a +100 price.
Argentina vs. Austria predicted starting XI lineups
Argentina Predicted Starting XI (4-4-2):
Martínez
Montiel | Romero | Martinez | Medina
De Paul | Mac Allister | Fernández | Almada
Messi | Martinez
Austria Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Schlager
Posch | Lienhart | Alaba | Mwene
Seiwald | Schlager
Schmid | Laimer | Sabitzer
Arnautovic
Argentina FIFA World Cup odds and news
Argentina emphatically opened their title defence, powered by a vintage performance from Lionel Messi. Marking his 200th appearance for the national team, the captain produced all three goals in the victory over Algeria and drew level with Miroslav Klose on 16 career World Cup goals.
Lionel Scaloni has no major injury concerns and is expected to stick with the same lineup that delivered such an impressive result in the opener. Even so, Argentina will be aware that Austria presents a much tougher challenge. Algeria managed to create a handful of dangerous counterattacks, and Austria possesses the structure and efficiency to capitalize on similar chances.
Austria FIFA World Cup odds and news
Austria could hardly have asked for a better start to their first World Cup appearance since 1998. Romano Schmid opened the scoring against Jordan before veteran striker Marko Arnautović came off the bench and added the finishing touch from the penalty spot in a convincing 3-1 victory.
Ralf Rangnick’s side continues to thrive under its trademark high-energy approach. David Alaba has returned to full fitness and brings leadership and stability to the defence alongside Philipp Lienhart. In midfield, Konrad Laimer and Marcel Sabitzer will carry enormous responsibility as Austria attempts to disrupt Argentina’s rhythm and limit the influence of Messi and the creative players around him.
Argentina vs. Austria player odds and props
Lionel Messi (ARG) to Score (+100): With the chance to move past Klose and take sole possession of the World Cup scoring record, expect Argentina’s captain to remain heavily involved in attacking areas.
Marcel Sabitzer (AUT) Over 1.5 Shots (-115): Austria’s counterattacking game often flows through Sabitzer, who is not afraid to shoot from distance.
World Cup 2026 bracket and futures
Argentina currently leads Group J thanks to a superior goal difference of +3, while Austria sits second at +2 after its opening victory. Jordan and Algeria remain without points and occupy the bottom two spots.
The defending champions are overwhelming favourites to finish atop the group at -700, while Austria’s chances of advancing (-2500) have improved significantly following Matchday 1. A victory for either nation would secure qualification for the Round of 32 with one group game remaining.
Argentina vs. Austria score prediction
Best bet: Argentina to Win and Under 4.5 Goals (-115)
Austria’s pressing system and tactical discipline should make this a far more competitive contest than Argentina’s opener. Rangnick’s team has the organization to frustrate opponents, but Argentina still possesses the superior individual talent and big-game experience. 11 of Argentina’s last 13 competitive victories ended with four goals or less, and I expect more of the same here.
Final score prediction: Argentina 2 | Austria 1