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Austria vs Israel: Nations League opener battle
24 Sep
Summary
- Austria and Israel meet for first time since 2021 in Nations League.
- Austria aims for promotion after missing 2026 World Cup.
- Israel seeks immediate return to League A after relegation in 2024.
Austria and Israel commence their 2026-27 UEFA Nations League journey on Thursday at Raiffeisen Arena. This marks their first meeting since November 2021.
Austria, who participated in the World Cup for the first time in 28 years, previously came close to promotion in the 2024 Nations League. They narrowly missed out in the promotion playoffs.
Israel's focus shifts to the Nations League after a recent win against Albania and a draw with Georgia. They aim for an immediate promotion back to the top tier, having been relegated in 2024.
Historically, Austria has a slight edge in head-to-head matches. Austria has won six of their last 15 encounters, with Israel securing fewer wins and five draws. Austria is also in better recent Nations League form, being unbeaten in five of their last six matches.
Both teams are expected to compete fiercely for a positive start. While Israel is anticipated to put up a strong challenge, Austria is predicted to secure a narrow victory on home soil.
