Exciting Nations League duel in Dublin ends without a winner

In the third Nations League match, Ralf Rangnick's Austria faced the Irish team in Dublin, with the thrilling duel ending in a 2‑2 draw after intense attacking phases.

Previous encounters and squad issues

Before the duel, Austria had lost the first game against Kosovo 0‑1 and beat Israel 3‑0. In the two encounters, the Austrian side had each won 3‑1. Coach Ralf Rangnick also had to contend with the suspension of Kevin Danso and several injuries, while Carney Chukwuemeka was deployed from the start for the first time.

Sasa Kalajdzic already tried a long‑range shot from about 40 metres after one minute, but it went over the bar. Shortly after, Troy Parrott received the ball in his own half, dribbled a spectacular solo through the Austrian defence and put the hosts ahead.

After 20 minutes the match had to be briefly halted because Irish fans threw tennis balls onto the pitch – an incident with a political background related to the match against Israel. The game resumed quickly, and in the 30th minute Patrick Wimmer created a good chance in front of keeper Caomihín Kelleher, which was saved by the goalkeeper.

Decisive moments in the second half

Just before halftime Wimmer again used a pass from Kalajdzic, but keeper Kelleher was again in position. A penalty was awarded to Ireland, which Troy Parrott converted confidently. In the second half Konrad Laimer took over the captain's duties after his substitution and returned from his injury.

Austria continued to press until Alexander Prass scored his first international goal, which was confirmed after a VAR check for a possible offside position. Michael Gregoritsch supplied the goal, while Kelleher saved a free kick from “Gregerl”. Shortly after, Wiegele prevented a quick equaliser with a top‑class save.

In the closing minutes both teams again sought the lead: Kalajdzic played a long ball to Prass, Finn Azaz missed his chance, and Ryan Manning failed to convert the potential 3‑2. The match ended after 91 minutes with a fair 2‑2 result.