Rangnick's 50th game: Austria target Nations League promotion against Israel

Austria begin their Nations League campaign on Thursday aiming for promotion to League A, but face Israel without several key players.

Austria begin their UEFA Nations League campaign on Thursday evening. Facing Israel at the Linzer Raiffeisen Arena (20:45), head coach Ralf Rangnick is targeting the first step towards promotion to League A, but must do so without several key players.

Rangnick will take charge of his 50th international match as Austria's manager. The German said ahead of the game that it is important for everyone on the pitch to take responsibility and show leadership. He noted the absence of David Alaba, Marko Arnautovic, Marcel Sabitzer, Christoph Baumgartner, and Konrad Laimer. In total, ten players from the most recent World Cup squad are missing.

Gregoritsch Takes the Armband

In this situation, leadership duties fall to others. Striker Michael Gregoritsch will wear the captain's armband against Israel. The attacker explained he was very pleased when the manager told him, and that it is something special to be able to fill this role. In goal, another experienced head, Alexander Schlager of Werder Bremen, will start. The keeper recently played in the DFB-Pokal and had a strong World Cup.

Rangnick expects a demanding opponent. The manager analysed that Israel likes to have the ball, builds from the back, and looks for creative solutions. Preparation included two training sessions in Upper Austria. The squad must play four matches in the next eleven days, which could lead to rotation in the goalkeeper position as well.

Current Form Provides Confidence

The Nations League start comes during a phase of consolidation. Austria currently sits second in their World Cup qualifying group. Their recent form from the last five matches shows two wins, one draw, and two defeats. The last outing was a defeat to Spain in early July.

The team aims to continue the positive development under Rangnick, who began his tenure two years ago with a disappointing training camp. The coach reaffirmed that the goal is promotion to League A and the further development of the team. The current standings and upcoming fixtures outline the path ahead.

Political aspects played no role in preparation, Rangnick emphasised, calling all wars senseless. The sporting focus is entirely on the opener. For the match in Linz, tickets were still available as of Wednesday midday. The following home game against Kosovo on Sunday at Vienna's Happel-Stadion, however, is already sold out except for the away sector. Due to injury, Konrad Laimer may only be available for the away games. The next test, however, comes on Thursday.