The BBC has confirmed its full broadcast lineup for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J clash between Argentina and Austria, with Lionel Messi on the verge of making football history.

Argentina opened their title defence in stunning fashion, defeating Algeria 3-0 in Kansas thanks to a Messi hat-trick. That performance moved the skipper level with former Germany striker Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals — meaning a single strike against Austria would make Messi the outright top scorer in the tournament's history.

Austria also arrive in confident form, having beaten Jordan 3-1 in their Group J opener. Both sides can seal a place in the last 32 with a win in a match kicking off at 6pm BST, available to watch live on the BBC.

The presenting team

Gabby Logan will front the studio coverage, a broadcaster with three decades of experience in British football television, having first appeared on Sky Sports 30 years ago.

Joining Logan in the studio is a panel of three former professionals. Olivier Giroud, the 39-year-old ex-France striker, brings a striking perspective to proceedings — he held the record as Les Bleus' all-time top scorer until last week, and will be watching Messi's pursuit of history with particular interest.

Giroud will be flanked by two former defenders. Cesar Azpilicueta, the Chelsea legend who spent 11 seasons at Stamford Bridge and represented Spain at five major tournaments including three World Cups, takes his place on the panel. Completing the studio lineup is Ashley Williams, the former Wales captain who led his country to the semi-finals of Euro 2016 and has become a familiar pundit on the BBC.

Commentary team

Steve Bower takes the commentary seat on BBC One — a broadcaster who has been covering World Cups for the corporation since 2010. Alongside him on the gantry is co-commentator Danny Murphy, the former Liverpool and Fulham midfielder who is a regular presence on Match of the Day throughout the domestic season and a well-established member of the BBC's football team.