Austria extend perfect Nations League start as they outclass Kosovo

Austria’s 3-1 triumph over Kosovo at the Ernst‑Happel‑Stadion secured a second straight win in Group 3 of the UEFA Nations League B, keeping their perfect start to the campaign intact. The result, achieved in front of a home crowd in Vienna, puts the Ralf Rangnick‑led side firmly in contention for promotion.

Early dominance and the opening goal

From the first minutes Kosovo threatened, with Vedat Muriqi nearly finding the net after a loose ball fell to the Fenerbahçe forward. Austria responded swiftly, taking the lead in the 23rd minute when Romano Schmid’s free‑kick was met by David Affengruber’s header, a goal confirmed after a VAR off‑side check.

The hosts doubled their advantage before the break when Patrick Wimmer, on the ball for Hoffenheim, delivered a precise square to Junior Adamu, who finished unchallenged.

Late finishing and penalty drama

After the interval, substitute Carney Chukwuemeka made it 3-0, capitalising on a low cross from Wanner that Muric failed to control. Nine minutes from time, Affengruber conceded a penalty after a heavy challenge on Valmir Matoshi; with regular taker Muriqi already substituted, Edon Zhegrova stepped up and coolly converted, providing Kosovo’s consolation.

Ralf Rangnick’s side had already demonstrated their attacking depth in the opening match against Israel, winning by the same margin thanks to extra‑time strikes from Phillipp Mwene and Sasa Kalajdzic. This time, however, Austria required no such drama to secure the three points.

Kosovo, who had previously proved too strong for the Republic of Ireland in that nation’s opening fixture, were unable to replicate that resilience against the Austrians. Their efforts were further hampered by missed chances, including a close‑range effort denied by Christian Zawieschitzky.

The victory sets up a forthcoming clash with the Republic of Ireland at the Aviva Stadium, where Austria will look to maintain their unbeaten run in the group’s third round.