DALLAS, June 22 (Xinhua) -- Austria head coach Ralf Rangnick said his side could take encouragement from its 2-0 defeat to Argentina on Monday after matching the defending champion for long stretches during their World Cup Group J encounter.
Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina secured a place in the knockout stage and moved three points clear of Austria at the top of the group with one matchday remaining in the first phase.
"During every match in the World Cup, there are times where one team has the momentum on its side," Rangnick told reporters. "Obviously it was in our favor that they missed the penalty. After that there was a period when we were in the game.
"In the second half, we were in control of possession, which most people didn't expect, and we put in a top performance."
Despite the defeat, Austria remains well placed to reach the round of 32 and needs a draw or victory in its final group match against Algeria on Saturday to guarantee qualification.
Rangnick rejected suggestions that Austria had been too cautious after falling behind, pointing out that his team controlled possession for extended periods in the second half.
"It wouldn't have been possible to take more risks," he said. "We made changes at halftime and played with two strikers during the match. But at the same time, we didn't want to be too risky."
The 67-year-old said Austria had created opportunities by taking the game to Argentina but noted the South Americans remained dangerous whenever they regained possession.
Asked about Messi's impact, Rangnick said the Argentina captain needed little time or space to punish opponents.
"This is Lionel Messi. He doesn't need many chances to decide a match," he said.
Rangnick also voiced support for hydration breaks, saying they could help managers communicate tactical adjustments during matches.
"I like it, even if in this air-conditioned stadium it wasn't very necessary," he said. "It gives coaches a chance to tweak some things and send messages to the players."
"That's why I'm not against it and why I'm interested to see it in European competitions or other international matches." ■
