Austria hosts Cyprus aiming to maintain its perfect start in the World Cup qualifiers, having already demonstrated focus and attacking efficiency in its first two matches. On the other hand, Akis Mantzios’ side is looking for a response and some consistency, fully aware that facing a superior opponent presents a serious challenge.
Austria did what was expected in its away fixture against San Marino, cruising to a comfortable 4–0 win and securing its second victory in as many matches in Group 8 of the World Cup qualifiers. This followed their opening 2–1 win over Romania just a few days earlier (07/06).
Ralf Rangnick’s team effectively sealed the result early in Serravalle, scoring four times within the first 30 minutes. Veteran forward Marko Arnautović netted twice (3’, 15’), with Gregoritsch (11’) and Baumgartner (27’) also adding their names to the scoresheet.
Despite having played one match fewer, Austria sits just three points behind group leaders Bosnia and is level on points (6) with Romania, who have already played twice more. The mood within the squad is highly positive, with Rangnick’s leadership credited for a notable improvement in the team’s performance and overall structure.
Team news (Austria):
Baidoo and Wurmbrand have been left out of the senior squad for the next match, having joined Austria’s U21 side instead. Defenders Weber and Trauner are also unavailable due to injury. On the positive side, star defender David Alaba returns after recovering from a knee injury and is available for selection again. Florian Kainz is also back, having missed the June fixtures.
Cyprus, meanwhile, began their qualifying campaign on a promising note, defeating San Marino 2–0 and putting in a strong display in the narrow 2–1 loss away to Bosnia. The team also showed encouraging signs in Bucharest against Romania but ended up losing 2–0, punished for two lapses in concentration just before halftime (43’, 45+2’).
Head coach Akis Mantzios appears to be gradually shaping the team, seeking to strike a better balance and build a more consistent side, though the task at hand remains extremely demanding. It is a major challenge for him personally. Shortly before the loss in Romania, Cyprus had earned a 2–2 away draw against Bulgaria.
However, Cyprus’ away form remains a significant concern, with just one win in their last 20 competitive games on the road (1–3–16). Without a significant step up, they are unlikely to finish higher than second-to-last in the group, ahead only of bottom-placed San Marino.
Team news (Cyprus):
Key striker Ioannis Pittas (CSKA Sofia) returns after serving a suspension. New to the team is goalkeeper Fabiano (Omonia), who recently received Cypriot citizenship. His presence adds considerable quality between the posts. Also in excellent form are two players from Pafos FC — defender Pileas and goalkeeper Michael.