Argentina vs Austria: Rangnick's High Press Nearly Worked Until Messi Happened

[IronQuarry48]

Austria under Ralf Rangnick came to Dallas with a plan. Press high. Force errors. Deny Argentina time on the ball. It nearly worked for large portions of the match. Argentina were uncomfortable at times. Messi had less space than in game one. But having a plan to stop Messi and executing it for ninety minutes are different things. Austria managed one shot on target. Argentina won 2-0. Rangnick's team are still in contention for the group having also beaten in their opening game but now face a tricky final game knowing Argentina are through. They'll need to win and hope other results go their way.

[Freddy95]

Rangnick's Austria played smart football. High press good organisation. Against anyone else it might have worked

[Faded Ross]

Austria had more of the ball in periods than you'd expect. They're a proper team not just making the numbers up

[Daz92]

One shot on target though. Argentina's defensive structure was immaculate. Kept Austria's quality players quiet

[Phil80]

Rangnick is one of the most tactically intelligent coaches in world football. He almost caused a real upset