FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Scaloni Explains How Hydration Breaks Are Changing Matches

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has admitted that hydration breaks are forcing teams to rethink their tactical approach at the FIFA World Cup 2026, as the defending champions prepare for a crucial Group J showdown against Austria on Monday.

After opening their title defence with a convincing 3-0 victory over Algeria, inspired by a Lionel Messi hat-trick, Argentina are aiming to secure a place in the knockout stages with another win. Austria, meanwhile, also arrive with momentum after defeating Jordan 2-1 in their opening match.

Hydration breaks creating new tactical dynamics

Despite Argentina's upcoming match being played indoors at Dallas Stadium, hydration breaks will continue to be implemented, giving coaches an additional opportunity to reassess tactics during games.

Scaloni acknowledged that the stoppages are changing how teams approach matches and making in-game management more complex.

"Everything that I have in my mind can change depending on these 22, 23 minutes," Scaloni told reporters on Sunday while discussing the impact of the breaks.

"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.

Scaloni expects stern examination from Austria

The Argentine coach praised Austria and highlighted the strengths of Ralf Rangnick's side, warning that the European outfit will present a significant challenge.

"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.

Scaloni believes the fact that both teams won their opening fixtures should contribute to an entertaining contest.

"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."

World Cup favourites will emerge, says Argentina boss

While the expanded 2026 tournament has already produced several unexpected results, Scaloni remains convinced that football's traditional powerhouses will eventually rise to the top.

"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.

Despite Argentina's dominant opening victory, the coach stressed that every team has areas that can be exploited.

"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.

Argentina will look to continue their impressive start against Austria as they seek early qualification for the knockout rounds.

(With inputs from ANI)