CORNERFLICK
Lionel Scaloni has urged Argentina to stay alert as they prepare to face Austria on Monday night in their second Group stage match at the 2026 World Cup.
Argentina can secure qualification for the next round with a win, but Scaloni said there is no such thing as an easy game at this tournament. He described Austria as a strong, aggressive side that presses well, attacks directly and made an excellent run through qualifying.
At his pre-match press conference, Scaloni also reflected on the competition more broadly, saying the heat and long drink breaks can break up matches and make them feel unusual. He added that his players are using the tournament to watch other teams, learn and follow how the competition is developing.
Scaloni said Argentina feel ready for the game and stressed the value of the group’s emotional stability. He also said that if opponents have periods of control, the key is to resist, defend and adapt rather than expect to dominate possession throughout.