Argentina Starting XI Ahead of World Cup Clash Against Austria

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has finalized a highly dynamic structural blueprint ahead of Monday's high-stakes World Cup encounter against Austria, with the entire system explicitly engineered to optimize the creative output of captain Lionel Messi. The match is scheduled to kick off on Monday (June 22) at 11:00 PM Bangladesh Time at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas.

Faced with a forced change on the defensive flank, the coaching staff has opted for a balanced tactical framework designed to control transition phases while providing defensive insulation for the frontline.

Molina Steps In Amid Montiel Injury

The primary administrative adjustment occurs at right-back, where Nahuel Molina has officially stepped into the starting XI. The move comes after team doctors ruled out Gonzalo Montiel following a right hamstring strain sustained during mid-week training. Molina will join the central defensive partnership of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez, maintaining defensive continuity following their physical performance against Algeria, with Facundo Medina holding his position on the left.

In goal, Emiliano 'Dibu' Martínez remains the undisputed anchor to marshal the Argentine backline.

A Four-Man Engine Room to Dictate Tempo

To counter Austria’s high-pressing mid-block, Scaloni is deploying a compact four-man midfield structure stationed directly behind the attacking duo. The strategic engine room features Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernández anchoring the central pivots, flanked by Alexis Mac Allister and the creative utility of Thiago Almada.

This specific configuration is designed to retain absolute possession and dictate the tempo of the match, allowing Messi the spatial freedom to drop deep and link up with primary striker Lautaro Martínez.

Confirmed Argentina Lineup (4-4-2):

• Goalkeeper: E. Martínez

• Defenders: Molina, Romero, Li. Martínez, Medina

• Midfielders: De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernández, Almada

• Forwards: Messi, La. Martínez