Rangnick warns Austrians ahead of clash with outstanding Argentina

Austria's coach Ralf Rangnick has warned his players they must deliver their highest performance since he took charge if they hope to avoid defeat against defending champions Argentina. The two teams meet in their second World Cup Group J match on Monday, with both having secured three points from their opening games.

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Let's talk about the weaknesses: there are none, not that we were able to observe. Their strengths, they are outstanding. The players can also play with two or three different types of team.

Argentina, featuring Lionel Messi who scored a hat-trick in their 3-0 victory over Algeria, presents a significant challenge. Rangnick was direct in his assessment of the South American giants. "Let's talk about the weaknesses: there are none, not that we were able to observe," he stated on Sunday. "Their strengths, they are outstanding. The players can also play with two or three different types of team."

Rangnick outlined his team's preparation, focusing on tactical approaches for possession, out-of-possession play, and set pieces. "We have to be very strong tactically, but we have to be very courageous," he urged. "We have to bring our A game tomorrow and we will maybe have to show the best performances we have ever done under my tenure."

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We have to be very strong tactically, but we have to be very courageous. We have to bring our A game tomorrow and we will maybe have to show the best performances we have ever done under my tenure.

Austria is making its first World Cup appearance since 1998. Rangnick, who took over more than three years ago, masterminded their return. Despite acknowledging Argentina's status as favorites, Rangnick expressed belief in his team's potential to cause an upset. "We will play against all the odds but that means we might cause a surprise, it might be a draw or a victory but anything is possible because we're talking about a ball sport and a team sport," he said. Defender Stefan Posch will be available to play wearing a mask after a recent injury.

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We will play against all the odds but that means we might cause a surprise, it might be a draw or a victory but anything is possible because we're talking about a ball sport and a team sport.