Franco Foda returns to Vienna, ÖFB faces a test against Kosovo

Franco Foda returns with Kosovo to Austria, while the Austrian FA team takes on the tactically very disciplined opponent on Sunday at 6 p.m. in the sold‑out Ernst Happel Stadium in Vienna. Head coach Ralf Rangnick warns of a tough test, as Austria wants to extend its record home streak.

Rangnick's Warning and Objectives

Ralf Rangnick emphasized that the match is “just like any other”, but he expects an even tougher game than against Israel, whom the Austrians beat 3‑1 in Linz on Thursday. The goal is to win the group in League B of the Nations League and thereby secure promotion to League A, which the Austrians missed in the previous edition.

Rangnick also recalled the last home defeat on 13 October 2023 against Belgium (2‑3) and highlighted that the home‑strong side benefits from its style of play and the support of the fans.

Line‑up and Injury‑Related Questions

In goal, either Lukas Jungwirth or Christian Zawieschitzky is expected to start instead of Alexander Schlager, meaning a debutant will be between the posts in any case. In midfield, Paul Wanner is pushing for a place after his strong performance against Israel, while the attacking hub remains open due to Michael Gregoritsch's ankle injury.

Sasa Kalajdzic is seen as the logical candidate, but Rangnick expressed concerns because of his three cruciate ligament tears. The 29‑year‑old LASK striker is important, but must stay fully fit to avoid another injury.

Austria extends run against Kosovo at sold‑out Happel Stadium

Alternative options are Junior Adamu, Marco Grüll and Christoph Lang, all of whom are physically at the required level. Rangnick stressed that only fully fit players would be selected.

Kosovo lines up defensively with a three‑ or five‑man backline, while Vedat Muriqi of Fenerbahçe‑Istanbul operates as a target striker. Rangnick described the side as “tactically very disciplined, very compact”, leaving few spaces for the Austrians.

The Kosovars had won their Nations League opening match at home against Ireland 1‑0. Rangnick said the result was clearly deserved and could even have been larger.

Ticket sales should ensure that the majority of spectators are seated in the stadium with Austrian flags, to amplify the home‑advantage feeling. The situation is sporting in nature, and a win would further solidify the starting position for the away games in Ireland and Kosovo.