Lionel Messi has been the main man in the opening round of the World Cup group stages after he bagged a hat-trick against Algeria. Picking the best player of the tournament looks like an easy types if Argentina keep marching to the business end of the competition and right now nothing suggests they will fall short. The South Americans have won eight games on the bounce and their attack has rarely scored less than two goals in that run while keeping things tight at the back.
Team Form
In their last four matches Argentina have found the net 13 times without conceding once which shows how sharp they look going forward. Austria also started with a win by beating Jordan 3-1 but their game was tighter and they only sealed the points late in the second half. Still three points in the bag is a big boost for the Austrians who have waited a long time for a victory at the World Cup.
Tactical Analysis
- Argentina attack looks unstoppable with Messi on song and plenty of options around him
- Austria under Ralf Rangnick play with good structure and can trouble even the best sides
- Both teams like to push forward so expect open play and chances at both ends
- Key duels in midfield will decide who controls the tempo
Against Austria the champions could see Messi grab one more goal to become the top scorer in World Cup history and that is very much on the cards given his current form. Austria will also fancy their chances of scoring as their style is livelier than Algeria so a game with goals at both ends is likely.
Betting Proposal
The types for this match point to goals from both sides. Both teams to score (yes) at 1.92
