Georg's report: World Cup for ÖFB team feels frighteningly real

In the shadow of the 4‑0 home victory over Kosovo, which Austria's women's national team won convincingly in the World Cup qualification, the football World Cup is becoming increasingly tangible for the ÖFB team. 1‑0 scorer Marie Höbinger emphasized on Tuesday in the catacombs of the Sport‑Club ground in Vienna that the goal is now “incredibly tangible”.

Successful Path Through the Play‑offs

After the aggregate win of 6‑1 in the first play‑off round, Switzerland awaits in early December as the final European hurdle on the way to a possible World Cup debut. The early leading goal by the Liverpool actress in the first leg (7.) already laid the foundation for promotion in the return leg.

Team Management and Match Analysis

ÖFB team coach Lars Söndergaard explained that the squad knows exactly what is expected of them, and that by creating more space on the wings and adding players in the last line they generate more pressure. This tactic led to numerous chances that were eventually converted into goals.

Sarah Puntigam, who despite her age played two full 90 minutes, scored her 26th goal in the 65th minute of the 168th international match – a strike she celebrated on her 34th birthday. She described the moment as special because she had never before celebrated a birthday with the national team.

Switzerland advance to World Cup playoffs keeping a clean sheet

Further Goals and Young Talents

Virginia Kirchberger‑Prohaska (87.) and Eileen Campbell (90.) rounded off the scoreline and confirmed Söndergaard's satisfaction with the clear winning streak. The integration of 17‑year‑old Valentina Pötzl, who delivered a strong starting‑XI debut, created new options in the squad.

The Danish coach emphasized the importance of a large squad, where young players and experienced mentors work together. Höbinger added that one cannot win with just eleven players, but a broad squad is decisive.

Outlook on the Return Leg Against Switzerland

The return leg on 5 December in Switzerland follows a first match four days earlier on Swiss soil. While the Kosovo match saw 3 514 spectators, the ÖFB team hopes for significantly higher attendance. Söndergaard and his players see a 50:50 chance, supported by Austria's current world ranking position of 25th, right ahead of the neighboring country.