Rangnick: Argentina Has No Weaknesses, Plus the Greatest Player of All Time

The moment has arrived for Austria's footballers to demonstrate their highest possible level since Ralf Rangnick took charge of the national team, if they hope to avoid defeat against the reigning World Champions, Argentina, according to the coach. This match marks the second for both teams in Group J of the 2026 World Cup and will be played tonight in Dallas.

Both squads currently boast a perfect record. Argentina comfortably defeated Algeria 3-0 with a Lionel Messi hat-trick, while Austria overcame Jordan 3-1. Rangnick adopted a cautious approach from the outset, a sentiment he conveyed to his team.

“Let's start with Argentina's weaknesses: there are none, at least none we've been able to identify,” Rangnick stated at a press conference when asked how he plans to counter Lionel Scaloni's squad. “Their strengths are exceptional. Their players can adapt and play with two or three different styles within a single match. We stuck to our routine, analyzing the opponent as usual. We discussed what to do in possession, when losing the ball, and during set pieces, and we tried to explain to the team what they need to do to beat them.”

Regarding Lionel Messi, he commented: “Obviously, they have the greatest player of all time in their squad, so we need to show that we are one of the best teams at this World Cup. We must be tactically very strong, but also very brave. We need to demonstrate our absolute best, and perhaps play the finest match we've ever delivered under my leadership.”

Austria is returning to the World Cup finals for the first time since 1998, a testament to Rangnick's work since taking over from Franco Foda three seasons ago. Their opening victory against Jordan was their first in 36 years, dating back to the 1990 World Cup in Italy.

Rangnick also confirmed that defender Stefan Posch would be available to play, albeit with a protective mask, which was custom-made for him in Los Angeles.

“I don't know how many people will bet on Austria and how many on Argentina,” Rangnick remarked. “If you look at the algorithms, they will probably suggest we won't win tomorrow.”

“We will be playing against all odds, but that means we could cause an upset – it could be a draw or even a win. In fact, anything is possible because it's a ball sport and a team sport. We have our own style, we have passion and courage, and we can decide the outcome of the match. That's what makes you famous or breaks you. I know Argentina plays at an exceptionally high level, but what matters is the level at which we will play.”