Scaloni highlights challenge of hydration breaks
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has acknowledged the disruptive impact of hydration breaks at the FIFA World Cup 2026, as the defending champions prepare for a crucial Group J encounter against Austria on Monday (local time) at Dallas Stadium. The match, played indoors, will still feature mandatory stoppages, and Scaloni admitted these breaks are altering coaching strategies.
Argentina's strong start
Argentina began their title defence with a convincing 3-0 victory over Algeria, powered by a Lionel Messi hat-trick. Austria, coached by Ralf Rangnick, opened their campaign with a 2-1 win over Jordan. A second consecutive victory would secure Argentina's place in the knockout stages.
Scaloni on adapting to breaks
"Everything that I have in my mind can change depending on these 22, 23 minutes," Scaloni told reporters on Sunday, 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."
He added: "It's something that, if we do it more, it will become normal. I don't think this is normal to us yet. 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."
Austria a tough opponent
Scaloni praised Austria, noting their aggressive pressing and direct style under Rangnick. "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 commented: "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."
Tournament surprises and traditional powers
While the expanded tournament has produced several surprise results, Scaloni believes traditional football powers will eventually assert themselves. "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.
