Austria's national football team, led by coach Ralf Rangnick, begins its campaign in the UEFA Nations League against Israel on September 24. The match, set for 20:45 local time in Linz, marks Rangnick's first competitive game since the World Cup. The team faces a challenge, missing five key players, but aims to show improvement after a disappointing World Cup exit.
The match is part of the first round of the Nations League, with both teams eager to avoid a poor start. Austria, considered favorites, will play in front of a sold-out crowd at the Linzer Raiffeisen Arena. Israel, meanwhile, has a different set of results to build upon. Rangnick has called for a strong response, emphasizing the need for better performance than in 2024.
The game will be broadcast live on ORF1, with fans hoping to see a fresh start for the Austrian team. Goalkeeper Alex Schlager is expected to play despite being in a reserve role, adding to the competitive atmosphere. The match represents a new beginning for the national team, aiming to build momentum ahead of future tournaments.
The Nations League serves as a crucial platform for both teams to test their form and prepare for upcoming challenges. With a packed schedule of four games in ten days, the outcome of this match could set the tone for Austria's campaign.
