Austria finally played at the World Cup for the first time since 1998. They opened with a victory over Jordan, and after the expected defeat to Argentina, pragmatically settled for a draw against Algeria. Both teams advanced to the playoffs, but Austria then lost 0-3 to Spain. They now began their campaign against Israel. Israel equalized, but were immediately reduced to ten men. In the end, Austria managed to break their opponents down, scoring twice in the 90th-plus minute and winning 3-1.
Kosovo came close to reaching a major final tournament for the first time. They finished second in their qualifying group, comfortably beating Slovenia and Sweden. In the spring playoff, they eliminated Slovakia but lost 0-1 to Turkey in the decisive match. They then also lost to the Czech Republic in a friendly, although they beat Andorra. On Thursday, against Ireland, they managed to convert their advantage into a result, snatching victory thanks to a late goal from their leader, Muriqi.
Rangnick’s side score 1.9 goals per game while conceding considerably fewer — 1.2. Their Balkan opponents score 1.5 goals per match and concede 0.7.
Previous matches: Austria – Kosovo
This will be the first ever meeting between the teams.
The visitors are a decent side. But Gregoritsch and company should win on home soil (odds — 1.6).
Austria – Kosovo: key statistics and trends
Austria have lost two of their last four matches
Both teams have scored in 50% of Austria’s matches, while the average total goals per game is 3.1
Kosovo have won three of their last five matches
Both teams have scored in 30% of Kosovo’s matches, while the average total goals per game is 2.2
Austria – Kosovo: possible starting lineups
Austria play in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (possible lineup): Schlager – Mwene, Danso, Lienhart, Posch – Seiwald, Schlager – Schmid, Wimmer, Grüll – Gregoritsch
Kosovo predicted lineup (3-4-2-1): Arijanet Muric (GK), Lumbardh Dellova, Ilir Krasniqi, Albian Hajdari, Mergim Vojvoda, Leon Avdullahu, Veldin Hodza, Dion Gallapeni, Edon Zhegrova, Fisnik Asllani, Vedat Muriqi.
