Austria's national football team took another big step closer to the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico on Saturday. To secure their place in the finals in America as group winners, they need at least a draw against their closest rivals, Bosnia, on Tuesday.
The Austrian national team (ÖFB) only struggled against underdogs Cyprus, who have proven to be a tough opponent in the World Cup qualifiers, for the first 15 minutes. ÖFB captain Marko Arnautovic and his teammates dominated the game from the outset, but were unable to create any clear-cut chances and had to be extremely wary of two or three Cyprus counter-attacks. After 17 minutes, the approximately 1,700 Austrian fans, who loudly supported their team throughout the 90 minutes, had their first reason to cheer. Christoph Baumgartner was brought down in the penalty area, just as in the first leg – penalty. Arnautovic stepped up to take the spot kick, and the ÖFB's all-time leading scorer kept his cool and scored the crucial opening goal.
Arnautovic coolly converted the penalty.
Austria should have sealed the victory before halftime. After a cross from Sabitzer, Stefan Posch headed wide from close range (22nd minute), and just a few minutes later, the lively Sabitzer was denied by the opposing goalkeeper. While the Austrian national team squandered further opportunities before the break, the Cypriots offered virtually nothing in attack. The back four, orchestrated by England-based Kevin Danso, stood firm and were always alert to the Cypriot counter-attacks.
If Bosnia stumbles, then their World Cup ticket is guaranteed.
That Austria would win this crucial match was clear after 55 minutes. Following a strong interception by Danso, Arnautovic left his opponent and the Cypriot goalkeeper in his wake and slotted home to make it 2-0. With his 47th goal for Austria, the veteran not only secured the victory but also opened the door to the World Cup wide. After their sixth win in seven games, Rangnick's team remains top of the group but now faces a final battle for a World Cup berth. Second-placed Bosnia, two points behind Austria, defeated Romania 3-1 on Saturday evening and could still snatch first place from the Austrian national team in the final round. The two sides will face off in Vienna on Tuesday. If Rangnick's team earns a point, their participation in next summer's finals is guaranteed. A defeat would mean having to go through the play-offs.
