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

[MurkyVoyager]

Austria's tournament isn't over. They can still progress from Group J depending on the final round

[Bussin99]

The contrast between Austria controlling possession and having one shot on target tells the story of modern football

[MickFoley]

Messi makes the difference. That's the analysis. Austria had a plan. Messi made the plan irrelevant

[Liam71]

Alaba was excellent defensively for Austria. Made things difficult for Lautaro throughout

[Arty Candle]

High pressing Argentina was a brave choice. Risky against a team that can hurt you on transition

[TrainingRun Anvil]

Rangnick will get credit for how Austria played even in defeat. They competed properly