Rangnick triumphs in the German‑German duel against Kosovo

At the Ernst-Happel-Stadium, the floodlights flicker as the Austrian national team kicks off the second matchday of the Nations League, immediately bringing the German coaching duel between Ralf Rangnick and Franco Foda into focus.

German-German coaching duel in focus

Both teams began the Nations League with a win: Austria beat Israel 3-1, while Kosovo secured a 1-0 victory over Ireland. The Austrian FA XI was led off the pitch for the first time by Xaver Schlager, and Foda appointed Vedat Muriqi as captain.

In the early phase Kosovo had the first chance but missed from close range. Austria had to find its footing after numerous changes to the starting lineup, until in the 23rd minute David Affengruber headed the first goal for the hosts after a free kick – the 28th consecutive home game with a goal, a record in the history of the Austrian FA.

First half: Austria dominates

Until the break Rangnick's team dominated the majority of possession. Schlager dribbled out of his own penalty area, played Patrick Wimmer forward, who selflessly passed the ball to Junior Adamu, who added the 2-0.

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Kosovo started the second half stronger and created another chance for Muriqi, but goalkeeper Christian Zawieschitzky kept a clean sheet in his international debut. Austria's defence weathered the pressure phase, and a long ball exchange was turned into the third goal by substitute Carney Chukwuemeka.

The debut of Vasilije Markovic, U17 vice‑world champion a year earlier, confirmed the exclusion of a federation switch to Serbia. In the final 20 minutes a foul by Affengruber in his own penalty area led to a goal by Juventus striker Edon Zhegrova, which however did not change the result.

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The Austrian fans celebrated the second home win in the Nations League, while former Mainz player Nikolas Veratschnig, now captain of RB Salzburg, earned his international debut. Next up is an away match in Ireland, before the return leg in Kosovo; Foda's XI will then face Israel.