Austria face Algeria at Kansas City Stadium in the early hours of Sunday morning, knowing a draw is enough to confirm second place in Group J and their progression to the World Cup round of 32.
Three points from the opening win over Jordan leave Ralf Rangnick’s side second behind Argentina on goal difference. A draw sends them through automatically as group runners-up. A win secures the same outcome more emphatically. Defeat puts them in third and leaves their fate in the hands of results elsewhere — a scenario Rangnick will be determined to avoid.
Austria team news
Rangnick has a near fully-fit squad available and faces one significant selection decision. Marko Arnautovic is expected to start for the first time at this tournament. Austria’s all-time leading goalscorer, with 47 goals from 133 appearances, has come off the bench in both previous matches and scored against Jordan. Michael Gregoritsch, who has started both games and struggled for service, is the expected casualty.
David Alaba is fit and continues at centre-back alongside Kevin Danso. The Real Madrid star managed a knee injury heading into the tournament, but has come through both matches without issue. Stefan Posch starts at right back despite playing the Argentina match with a broken jaw — confirmation of his fitness and durability.
Konrad Laimer operates on the left side of defence. In midfield, Nicolas Seiwald and Xaver Schlager form the double pivot, providing the defensive structure Rangnick’s system demands. Marcel Sabitzer, one of Austria’s most influential players in advanced midfield, continues in his wide left role. Romano Schmid provides creative support from the right.
Paul Wanner is a doubt, and his involvement is to be confirmed. Should he miss out, Carney Chukwuemeka — formerly an England youth international — could make his first World Cup start in the number ten position. Alexander Schlager continues in goal.
Austria predicted lineup
Austria possible starting XI (4-2-3-1): A. Schlager; Posch, Danso, Alaba, Laimer; Seiwald, X. Schlager; Schmid, Wanner, Sabitzer; Arnautovic
When will the match kick off?
The FIFA World Cup group match kicks off at 03:00 BST on Sunday, 28 June 2026.
How to watch Algeria vs Austria?
The match will be broadcast live on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer in the UK.
Read more – FIFA World Cup 2026: Every team in the Round of 32 so far
See Also- The Cristiano Ronaldo Conundrum for Portugal
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