Two winners from matchday one in League B of the UEFA Nations League (UNL) meet in round two as Austria host Kosovo for the first time ever.
Match News and Current Form
Austria edged a controversial matchday one game against Israel, netting two late goals to secure a 3-1 win after the opponents were reduced to ten men shortly after half-time. A dominant performance ultimately got the result it deserved and marks a perfect start to Austria's quest to return to League A at the second time of asking, and it seems plausible that their winning start can continue here given they’re unbeaten in 15 home games (W12, D3). Austria haven’t been beaten at home in League B of the UNL since September 2020, though a failure to keep a clean sheet in their last six competitive matches places added pressure on their attacking unit.
Kosovo may still be waiting patiently for their first-ever major tournament appearance, but their maiden League B UNL campaign got off to a perfect start on Thursday when they beat Ireland 1-0. They too needed a late goal to prevail, but as a rising nation who currently boast their highest-ever FIFA ranking (#77), the Kosovans won’t be ruling out a possible promotion to League A in this cycle. Form away from Pristina could be key in doing so, and they’re unlikely to be overawed by this trip to Vienna having won their last three competitive away games, while they won both completed road trips in the last UNL cycle too.
Head-to-Head History
This is a first-ever H2H between the nations.
Hot Stats and Streaks
Austria haven’t conceded more than once in a home game since October 2023.
Austria’s last five games witnessed scoring after the 85th minute.
Only three of Kosovo’s last 11 internationals saw both teams score.
Kosovo scored after the hour mark in six of their last seven matches.
Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Austria’s Saša Kalajdžić could be a contender to net the game’s last goal having closed the scoring with each of his last four international goals, including against Israel. Kosovo’s Edon Zhegrova has either opened or closed the scoring with all five of his international strikes, four of which came after half-time.
Michael Gregoritsch picked up an injury in Austria’s game with Israel, while Kosovo’s squad is close to full strength.
For all the latest team news, please check the Flashscore match centre.
Betting Analysis
Given both sides’ tendency to be involved in late drama, backing a goal to be scored after the 80th minute seems a solid approach to take.
Author: Chris Wilson