Just one day before the match against Argentina, Austria coach Ralf Rangnick warned this Sunday (21) that the current champions are “much more than Messi”, but promised to play boldly in search of another surprise in the 2026 World Cup.
“Let’s talk first about the weaknesses [da Argentina]because they don’t exist, there is nothing that we have been able to observe”, declared the German coach during his press conference at the AT&T stadium, in Arlington, on the outskirts of Dallas.
“As for their strengths, they have exceptional players individually. They can play with two or three different tactical schemes”, detailed Rangnick, before turning his attention to Messi, who scored three goals in Argentina’s debut against Algeria (3-0).
“Argentina is much more than Messi,” he emphasized. “But obviously they have the greatest player of all time in the team, and tomorrow we have to prove that we are one of the best teams at this World Cup.”
“We have to be very strong tactically, but also very courageous. We need to give a lot of energy and present our best performance tomorrow, probably the best since I took charge of the national team”, said the former Manchester United coach and one of Jürgen Klopp’s mentors.
Rangnick, 67, is credited with revitalizing the Austrian national team since taking charge in 2022.
After solid campaigns in the European qualifiers, Austria began their journey in Group J of the World Cup with a 3-1 victory over Jordan. With the three points won, they are tied with Argentina.
A place in the 32-team phase awaits the winner of this match, which starts at 2pm (Brasília time) at the Dallas Cowboys stadium, an NFL arena that has a retractable roof and air conditioning.
“Tomorrow, we will take the field against all odds”, acknowledged Rangnick. “But we have the chance to surprise. It could end in a draw or a victory for us. Anything is possible.”
“We felt less pressure than in the first match,” noted midfielder Marcel Sabitzer, sitting next to him. “The team is very calm… We will be very focused and will try to be the best team on the field.”
