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Match Overview

On Monday, 28 September 2026, Austria will host Kosovo in Round 2 of the UEFA Nations League at the Ernst Happel Stadium in Vienna. Both teams will be eager to secure crucial points in their bid for promotion or to avoid relegation in their respective groups. Austria, under their new manager, will look to bounce back from their opening-round result, while Kosovo, managed by Franco Foda, aims to build on their previous performance. The match promises to be a competitive encounter with high stakes for both sides.

Team News & Expected Lineups

Austria is expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with key players like David Alaba marshaling the defense and Marcel Sabitzer pulling the strings in midfield. However, they may miss Marko Arnautović due to injury, which could see a younger striker leading the line. Kosovo, likely deploying a 4-3-3 under Franco Foda, will rely on the creativity of Milot Rashica and the defensive solidity of Amir Rrahmani. Their squad is near full strength, with no major absences reported.

Head-to-Head

Historically, Austria has dominated encounters against Kosovo, winning both of their previous meetings. The most recent clash, a friendly in 2020, ended in a 2-0 victory for Austria. Kosovo will be eager to secure their first-ever win against their opponents, while Austria will look to maintain their unbeaten record.

Key Players to Watch

For Austria, David Alaba remains the backbone of the team, capable of influencing the game from defense or midfield. Marcel Sabitzer will be crucial in linking play and creating chances. For Kosovo, Milot Rashica is the main attacking threat with his pace and dribbling, while Amir Rrahmani will be vital in keeping Austria's forwards at bay.

Prediction & Analysis

Austria, playing at home, will likely dominate possession and look to exploit Kosovo's defensive vulnerabilities. Kosovo, however, could pose a threat on the counter with their quick wingers. Tactically, Austria's midfield control may give them the edge, but Kosovo's resilience under Franco Foda could make this a tight contest. A narrow 2-1 win for Austria seems the most probable outcome.