Austria face Argentina in a FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage fixture at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Monday 22 June 2026. The reigning world champions open their second group match against the Austrians, with both sides targeting a knockout-round place in Group J.
What is the FIFA World Cup 2026?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the 23rd edition of football’s flagship international tournament and the first to be hosted across three nations: the United States, Canada and Mexico. The competition runs from 11 June to 19 July 2026, with 48 teams competing in 104 matches, a significant expansion from the 32-team format used in previous editions.
The expanded tournament features 12 groups of four teams, with the top two from each group and the eight best third-placed sides progressing to a new Round of 32. For Argentina, the holders, and Austria, making a rare World Cup appearance, this group stage fixture carries major weight in shaping their path through the knockout rounds.
When is Austria vs Argentina?
Austria vs Argentina kicks off at 1pm ET (6pm BST) on Monday 22 June 2026. The match forms part of the second round of group-stage matches in Group J and is expected to last roughly two hours including half-time.
Where is Austria vs Argentina being played?
The match is being held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, one of 11 US venues hosting World Cup matches. The retractable-roof stadium, home to the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, has a capacity of more than 80,000 and is one of the largest venues on the 2026 tournament schedule. It will stage several group and knockout matches throughout the competition.
Key Contenders
Argentina arrive as defending world champions after their 2022 triumph in Qatar, where Lionel Messi lifted the trophy for the first time. Under head coach Lionel Scaloni, La Albiceleste remain one of the highest-ranked sides in world football and are among the favourites to retain the title. Key figures include Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernandez, with Messi’s involvement one of the major storylines of the tournament.
Austria qualified through the European route and are making their first World Cup appearance since 1998. Ralf Rangnick’s side have built a reputation for organised, high-pressing football and will look to captain Marcel Sabitzer, Konrad Laimer and striker Marko Arnautovic for leadership. Austria topped their qualifying group and enter the tournament with quiet confidence despite the gulf in pedigree.
How to Watch
In the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on the BBC or ITV as part of their shared World Cup coverage, with streaming available on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. In the United States, FOX holds English-language rights with Telemundo providing Spanish-language coverage. Globally, FIFA+ carries highlights and selected broadcasts, while rights holders including beIN Sports (MENA), SBS (Australia) and TF1 (France) cover other major markets.
History and Head-to-Head
Austria and Argentina have met only a handful of times in senior international football, with Argentina holding the stronger record. Their most notable meetings came in friendly internationals during the 1980s and 1990s. This is their first competitive World Cup encounter and marks one of the more intriguing group-stage ties in Group J given the contrast in styles and tournament pedigree.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets for FIFA World Cup 2026 matches are sold exclusively through FIFA’s official ticketing platform at FIFA.com. Group-stage fixtures involving Argentina have been among the most heavily requested, with hospitality packages available through FIFA’s official hospitality partner. Secondary market availability is limited and buyers are advised to use only authorised channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Austria vs Argentina start?
The match kicks off at 1pm ET (6pm BST) on Monday 22 June 2026.
Where is Austria vs Argentina being held?
At AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, United States.
How can I watch Austria vs Argentina?
BBC or ITV in the UK, FOX and Telemundo in the US, and FIFA+ for highlights worldwide.
Who are the defending World Cup champions?
Argentina, who beat France on penalties in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final in Qatar.