Why Is Julian Alvarez Not Playing Today for Argentina vs Austria at the World Cup?

Argentina's second match of the 2026 World Cup is against Austria at Dallas Stadium. The match is crucial for both teams, and a win for either team means they will advance to the knockout stage.

The reigning world champions played an impressive performance last week against Algeria.

Lionel Messi displayed an impressive performance last week, scoring a hat-trick that made him the joint leading goalscorer at World Cups. Argentina won the match without starting their first-choice striker, Julian Alvarez.

The striker did play against Algeria, but when he came off the bench in the 55th minute.

Alvarez does not start again, and the decision to keep him off the starting lineup for a second straight game causes concern.

Is Julian Alvarez Injured?

Julian Alvarez is not injured and is available to play today against Austria. Alvarez is on the bench and could play in the second half.

Reports from Argentina suggest that Scaloni does not want to risk Alvarez suffering an injury after he recently recovered in time for the World Cup.

Alvarez could be 100% fit by the knockout stages if Argentina wins today against Austria. Argentina's final group stage match is against Jordan on June 27.

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This story was originally published June 22, 2026 at 9:57 AM.