FIFA World Cup 2026: Scaloni wary of hydration-break impact as Argentina prepare for tricky Austria test
Arlington, June 22
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni admitted he is still adjusting to the impact of hydration breaks at the FIFA World Cup 2026, as the defending champions gear up for a crucial Group J clash against Austria on Monday.
Argentina began their title defence in impressive fashion with a 3-0 victory over Algeria, powered by a Lionel Messi hat-trick, while Austria opened their campaign with a 2-1 win over Jordan. A second consecutive victory would secure Argentina's place in the knockout stages.
Despite the match being played indoors at Dallas Stadium, hydration breaks will remain in place, and Scaloni acknowledged that the stoppages are changing the way coaches approach matches.
"Everything that I have in my mind can change depending on these 22, 23 minutes," Scaloni told reporters on Sunday of the disruption caused by the breaks, according to Reuters.
"We have people analysing the game, and we look for solutions. It's what you do in a normal halftime. It's for those who want to attack because you can amend certain things. It's weird to adapt to that. It's something that, if we do it more, it will become normal. I don't think this is normal to us yet," he said.
"We're trying to analyse things and correct things. Sometimes the match changes in the first period itself, and you can amend certain things. I understand it will change," he added, according to Reuters.
Scaloni also praised Austria, coached by Ralf Rangnick, and expects a stern challenge from a side known for its aggressive pressing and direct style.
"Austria have very good players, they're a great team, high pressure, a vertical team. We have seen they are an opponent to be taken into account. It will be complicated," he said.
He further added, "We have both won our opening match, so that might make the show better. It will be tough, and at the World Cup, there is no easy game, even though there are more matches. The group phase has always been difficult."
While the expanded tournament has already produced several surprise results, Scaloni believes the traditional football powers will eventually assert themselves as the competition progresses.
"The great powers will be there, there are many that can compete, and without a doubt, this is going to be a tough World Cup," he said.
"Even if you've had a great match, you have to point out something that isn't great, and I believe every coach does this logically. Like every team, we have our weak points, and hopefully they won't find them," Scaloni concluded, according to Reuters.
Argentina will look to maintain their strong start against Austria and continue their march toward the knockout rounds.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting to see how Scaloni is adapting to these hydration breaks. It's a sign of the times with climate change making heat management crucial even in indoor venues. Austria under Rangnick are no pushovers though - they play high-pressing football that can trouble any team. Expect a tight match, but Argentina's experience should see them through.
I understand the need for hydration breaks due to player safety, but it's turning football into a series of mini-sessions rather than a continuous game. Scaloni's point about having to analyse everything in those 22-23 minutes like another halftime is valid. It changes tactics dramatically. Still, Argentina with Messi looks unstoppable right now. Tough luck for Austria! 😅
Scaloni's humility in acknowledging Austria's strengths is refreshing. As an Indian football fan, I'm glad the World Cup is expanding - it's giving more nations a chance to shine. But these hydration breaks feel like cricket's drinks break - it breaks the momentum. Argentina should be too strong though, especially with Messi in this form. Vamos Argentina! 🇮🇳⚡
It's fascinating how hydration breaks are becoming a tactical element in modern football. Scaloni's approach of using them like a mini-halftime is innovative. But I worry this might give defensive teams even more time to regroup and stifle attacking play. Austria will definitely test Argentina's defence with their pressing game. Should be a cracking contest!
Argentines are taking this match seriously, and rightly so. Austria with Rangnick's tactics can surprise anyone. But I think Scaloni's main headache
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