The qualification for the FIFA World Cup 1990 in Italy was a memorable moment for Austria. After a long drought without major international tournaments, which lasted until the late 1980s, the team, under coach Karl Stotz, experienced a remarkable revival. The Austrian national team, often plagued by failures in previous years, found new confidence during this time.

A key match in this qualification was the memorable game against the FIFA world number one, England. In a thrilling home match in Vienna, Austria managed to secure a draw, which was celebrated as a significant achievement. This game was not just a sporting triumph but also served to boost the team's morale and solidify fan support.

The qualification was characterized by a strong team performance led by talented players like Andreas Herzog and Herbert Prohaska. These two were not just crucial on the pitch but also served as mentors for younger players seeking their place in the team. The tactical flexibility introduced by Stotz allowed the squad to adapt to various playing styles and outsmart their opponents.

The highlight of this qualification was the decisive match against the Faroe Islands, which Austria won 3-0. This result secured a spot in the World Cup and marked the comeback of Austrian football on the international stage. The euphoria generated by this crucial victory was palpable throughout the country and led to a wave of support that accompanied the team all the way to the World Cup.

Although the 1990 World Cup itself was not crowned with great sporting success for Austria, the qualification was a pivotal moment that laid the foundation for the future development of Austrian football. The experiences and newfound confidence from this time continue to resonate today and are a vital part of Das Team's identity. The return to the grand stage of football inspired Austria's players to keep working on their development and improve in the coming years, ultimately leading to their participation in the 2026 World Cup.