Argentina vs Austria: Defending Champions Face Das Team
Argentina, the 2022 World Cup champions, brings their title defense to MetLife Stadium in New Jersey against Austria. Lionel Scaloni's side enters 2026 as back-to-back Copa América winners (2021, 2024) and the reigning world champions. Austria, led by Real Madrid's David Alaba, represents Europe's new wave of competitive nations.
The historic rematch echoes 1978, when Argentina hosted and won the World Cup. In that tournament, Mario Kempes' goals led Argentina past Austria 2-1 in the second group stage. Nearly five decades later, another Argentine golden generation defends their crown on American soil.
Messi's American Dream
Lionel Messi's move to Inter Miami in 2023 transformed American soccer. At 38, he enters 2026 having finally completed his trophy cabinet with the 2022 World Cup. Whether this represents his final World Cup remains uncertain, but the intensity of playing in his adopted home country ensures maximum motivation. The metropolitan New York/New Jersey area, with its massive Argentine community, will create an incredible atmosphere.
Argentina's Supporting Cast
Beyond Messi, Argentina boasts depth everywhere. Julián Álvarez's emergence at Atlético Madrid provides a dynamic striking partner. Enzo Fernández anchors midfield after his record-breaking Chelsea move. The 2022 winning core of Rodrigo De Paul, Ángel Di María's successors, and defensive excellence remain intact. This is no one-man team.
Austria's Resurgence
Austria has rebuilt into a competitive force under Ralf Rangnick. David Alaba's Real Madrid experience provides defensive leadership and set-piece threat. Marko Arnautović remains a physical presence in attack, while young talents like Christoph Baumgartner and Konrad Laimer offer Bundesliga-quality energy. Das Team reached the Euro 2024 knockouts, proving they can compete.
MetLife Stadium Showcase
MetLife Stadium hosts the World Cup Final - seeing the defending champions play there carries extra significance. The 82,500-seat venue will be packed with Argentine fans from the tri-state area. Austrian supporters will be outnumbered but vocal.
Group B Stakes
Argentina enters Group B as favorites alongside Algeria. Austria must earn every point to have knockout hopes. For Argentina, cruise control isn't an option - 2022's opening loss to Saudi Arabia showed any team can cause an upset. Scaloni will demand full focus.