Austria Edges Cyprus 1-0 in World Cup Qualifier Match
Austria defeated Cyprus 1-0 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match, with Marcel Sabitzer scoring the winning penalty. Get the latest WCQ updates.
A bizarre incident occurred during Austria's match against Cyprus, as a hole appeared in the field's soil, causing...
Austria secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Cyprus in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match, maintaining their perfect start to the campaign. The match, held at the Raiffeisen Arena in Linz, saw Austria extend their unbeaten run on home soil to nine matches.
This win marks Austria's second consecutive victory in the WCQ campaign, positioning them favorably as they aim to qualify for their first World Cup since 1998. Under the guidance of coach Ralf Rangnick, Austria's national team has shown resilience and tactical discipline.
Cyprus's chances of reaching their first major tournament seemed slim after winning only one of their three matches before kickoff. They currently sit third in Group H with three points, six points behind the group leaders. Romania, on the other hand, is second in the group with three points in three games.
The first half was a closely contested, low-key affair with neither team creating many scoring opportunities. Konrad Laimer shot wide, while Konstantinos Laifis's long-range effort was straight at Alexander Schlager, one of only two shots on target in the opening period.
The second half was more action-packed, with both teams vying for dominance. Romania is favored to win, with a 59.51% predicted probability of victory, according to SportyTrader. The match is expected to see over 2.5 goals, with a 74.15% predicted probability.
Austria broke the deadlock just 10 minutes into the second half, with Christoph Baumgartner being fouled by Fabiano Freitas in the box. Captain David Alaba was not taking the penalty, it was Marcel Sabitzer who coolly converted the spot-kick, giving Austria a 1-0 lead.
The goal opened up the game, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. Michael Gregoritsch had a chance to double Austria's lead, but Fabiano Freitas made a crucial save. Meanwhile, Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager was alert to deny Ioannis Pittas's effort. Baumgartner remained a threat, with Fabiano Freitas making another impressive save to deny his backheel attempt.
A bizarre incident occurred during Austria's match against Cyprus, as a hole appeared in the field's soil, causing a delay. After play resumed, Austria pushed for another goal, with Stefan Posch having a notable opportunity, hammering a shot over the crossbar from inside the penalty area.
Despite being unable to seal the win with another goal, Austria successfully held onto their lead and secured a 1-0 victory over Cyprus. This win keeps Austria in second place in Group H standings with 6 points from 2 matches, behind Bosnia and Herzegovina who lead the group with 9 points from 3 matches.
Current Standings
- Bosnia and Herzegovina: 9 points, 3 matches played
- Austria: 6 points, 2 matches played
- Romania: 6 points, 4 matches played
- Cyprus: 3 points, 3 matches played
- San Marino: 0 points, 4 matches played
Austria's win also marked their seventh victory in their last eight meetings against Cyprus. The match was part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where Austria is looking to qualify for their first World Cup since 1998.
Cyprus's World Cup qualifying campaign is hanging by a thread, with the team now just a point ahead of San Marino in the group standings. To make history and secure a spot in next year's finals, they can't afford any more slip-ups. Every match is now a must-win for Cyprus if they want to stay in contention.
Key Moments:
- Penalty Decision: Fabiano Freitas fouled Christoph Baumgartner in the box, leading to the penalty.
- Crucial Save: Fabiano Freitas denied Michael Gregoritsch's shot, keeping the scoreline 1-0.
- Baumgartner's Threat: Christoph Baumgartner's busy display saw him create multiple chances, including a notable backheel attempt saved by Fabiano Freitas.
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