Austrian football fans are gearing up for an exciting Nations League match against Israel, scheduled for September 25, 2026, at 01:45. This encounter comes after Austria's disappointing 0-3 defeat to Spain, which eliminated them from the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup. As they prepare for this match, Austria is looking to bounce back and make a statement.

Austria has undergone significant changes in personnel, with notable player David Alaba not being called up for this match. Alaba, who recently parted ways with Real Madrid, is currently without a club, which raises concerns about his fitness levels. His absence will be felt not only in terms of skill but also in team morale, as he has been a key figure in the squad for many years. Coach Ralf Rangnick's decision to move forward without Alaba indicates a shift towards planning for the future.

Historically, Austria has struggled against weaker opponents, despite being well-organized under Rangnick. Their performance in the Nations League has seen them relegated back to League B after a brief stint in League A. Meanwhile, Israel has had its own challenges, having faced tough competition in their World Cup qualifying group, which included Norway and Italy. However, Israel is known for its open and attacking style of play, which could make for an entertaining matchup.

Head-to-Head Record

In their last four encounters, the home team has emerged victorious every time. Overall, Austria and Israel have faced each other 13 times, with Austria winning six matches, drawing four, and losing three. The goal tally stands at 26 for Austria and 25 for Israel, showcasing the competitive nature of their meetings.

Team News

Austria will miss the experienced defender David Alaba, which poses a significant challenge for their defensive lineup. In contrast, Israel will field a full-strength squad, eager to capitalize on Austria's vulnerabilities. The expected lineups for the match are as follows:

• Austria (4-2-3-1): A. Schlager; Posch, Danso, Lienhart, Laimer; Seiwald, X. Schlager; Schmid, Wanner, Wimmer; Gregoritsch.
• Israel (4-4-2): D. Peretz; Dasa, Schlomo, Stoinov, Revivo; Abu Fani, E. Peretz, Kanichowsky, Solomon; Turgeman, Baribo.

Recent statistics indicate that Austria's last three official matches have seen at least three goals scored, while Israel's last eight matches have also featured similar high-scoring patterns. Fans can expect an exciting match filled with goals, especially in the final 15 minutes, where both teams have shown a tendency to score.

In conclusion, Austria is favored to win this match, potentially by a margin of two goals or more, despite the absence of Alaba. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter with plenty of action, as both teams aim to secure a vital victory in the Nations League.

Predicted Score: Austria 3 - 1 Israel