Austria just had an impressive European qualifying campaign, winning 6, drawing 1 and losing only 1 match in Group H.
A crucial moment in the final matchday came when Michael Gregoritsch scored the equalizer, helping Austria hold Bosnia & Herzegovina to a 1-1 draw, thus maintaining their top spot and securing direct qualification to North America.
Under the guidance of veteran coach Ralf Rangnick, the Austrian national team continued their impressive form. They won all three of their pre-tournament friendly matches, defeating Ghana 5-1, overcoming South Korea 1-0, and then beating Tunisia 1-0.
A run of three consecutive wins and five unbeaten matches gives Austria great confidence heading into their opening match of the 2026 World Cup.
Rangnick and his team understand that three points against Jordan would be especially important before facing two tough opponents, Argentina and Algeria.
Conversely, Jordan is considered the weakest team in Group J and had a less than ideal start to the tournament.
The ticket to North America marks the first time in history that Jordan has participated in a World Cup final tournament.
However, the defeat in the Arab Cup final against Morocco significantly affected the morale of the Jordan players. They drew two and lost two of their last four friendly matches, extending their winless streak to five.
Given that Jordan has conceded at least two goals in their last five matches, Austria, with their superior squad quality and consistent form, will secure all three points in their opening game.
Prediction: Austria wins 3-1
Predicted lineup
Austria: A Schlager; Laimer, Lienhart, Alaba, Mwene; X Schalger, Seiwald; Schmid, Sabitzer, Gregoritsch; Arnautovic.
Jordan: Abulaila; Obaid, Al-Arab, Nasib; Haddad, Al Rashdan, Al Rawabdeh, Taha; Tamari, Olwan, Fakhouri.
Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/nhan-dinh-bong-da-ao-vs-jordan-bat-nat-tan-binh-world-cup-2526123.html
