Austria gets off to a successful start in its World Cup qualification: 2-1 against Romania!

Austria gets off to a successful start in its World Cup qualification: 2-1 against Romania!

The Austrian national team started the 2026 World Cup qualification on Saturday, and an important duel awaited the team boss's squad Ralf Rangnick: the opener against Romania. In Group H, the game is a game-changer for the chances of winning the group, as Romania is one of the big competitors. While the Austrians are still ranked 22nd in the FIFA world rankings, Romania had to settle for 45th place. The Romanian team started with two games already played and only three meager points to their name.

Austria was under pressure to meet its own high expectations. The squad featured both newcomers and returning players in this premiere match. That's how they were Debutants like Nikolas Polster, Nicolas Schmid and Nikolas Veratschning and Xaver Schlager, who returned after an injury, was part of the team. Unfortunately, Rangnick had to do without his captain David Alaba, who was unable to play due to a torn meniscus.

An exciting opening game

The encounter took place in a sold-out Happel Stadium and ended with a 2-1 win for Austria. Michael Gregoritsch opened the scoring for the hosts in the 42nd minute, scoring his 20th international goal. However, the initial phase of the game was not optimal from Austria's perspective. According to the captain Marcel Sabitzer The first twenty minutes were weak, but gradually the team took control and put more pressure on Romania.

In the 60th minute, Sabitzer increased the score to 2-0. Despite several opportunities - including a possible goal from Sabitzer, which was canceled due to offside - the Romanian team showed their strength on the counterattack in stoppage time and scored the goal through Denis Alibec. However, goalkeeper Patrick Pentz prevented dangerous chances from Nicolae Stanciu and Adrian Sut. Rangnick also made a few changes during the game, such as Patrick Wimmer against Stefan Posch and Gregoritsch against Marko Arnautovic.

Looking ahead

With a win, Austria got off to a good start in qualifying, but is never tired of improving. Rangnick and his team face further challenges as there is internal unrest in the ÖFB, which could affect the team's overall process. The next qualifying games will be crucial for the team's further development.

The betting odds were clear before the game and favored Austria - a win was rated at 1.50, a draw at 4.33 and a win for the Romanians at 6.50. How things will develop remains to be seen, but what is certain is that Rangnick has laid a solid foundation with a talented squad.