Austria are returning to the World Cup for the first time since 1998, ending a 28-year absence, and they have been drawn in Group J alongside defending champions Argentina, Algeria, and Jordan.

It’s a tough group, but Austria have genuine quality in their ranks and will be hopeful of making it through to the knockouts for the first time since 1954

📔 What are the key stats and facts I need to know before betting on Austria at the World Cup 2026?

Austria Stats pending...

🔥 What free bets are available for Austria's World Cup games?

✅ What is the best bet for Austria at the World Cup 2026?

🌍 How did Austria qualify for the 2026 World Cup?

Austria had no issues getting through their World Cup qualifying campaign, and Rangnick's men topped Group H comfortably with six wins, one draw and one loss from their eight matches.

They scored 22 goals and conceded just four, which highlighted how impressive they were at both ends of the field throughout the campaign, even though it wasn’t the toughest group. In fact, they scored almost half of their goals in a 10-0 victory over San Marino, as Marko Arnautovic bagged four goals to underline his importance to the national side.

Austria’s sole defeat came by a 1-0 scoreline against Romania, but by then they had pretty much secured top spot. They drew 1-1 against Bosnia on the final day to cement their position in first, ending a 28-year absence from the World Cup.

👔 Who is the Austria manager at the World Cup 2026?

Ralf Rangnick took charge of Austria in 2022 and he has since transformed them into one of Europe's most progressive national sides. His high-intensity pressing style has proven to be effective at international level, and the results speak for themselves.

Rangnick typically deploys a 4-2-3-1, with overlapping fullbacks who are always looking to join the attacks. The former Man United manager also likes his centre backs to be aggressive to win the ball back, which can often create space to exploit in behind.

🔎 Who are Austria's key players to watch at World Cup 2026?

Marko Arnautovic

Marko Arnautovic led the line for Austria during the March international break, and he is expected to play a big role again for his national side at the World Cup.

With 132 caps and 47 goals to his name, Arnautovic is Austria's most-capped player and all-time top scorer, and he seems to still have more to give as he approaches 50 international goals. The 37-year-old currently plays for Red Star Belgrade, and he has nine goals and nine assists from his 26 appearances across all competitions this season.

Marcel Sabitzer

Marcel Sabitzer has been one of the most dependable figures in this Austria squad for years, and he is perhaps one of their most recognisable names.

He is another player who has been around the national team for a while, and he is approaching 100 international caps - that wealth of experience will be vital this summer. Sabitzer has been an important player for Dortmund this season, making 34 appearances across all competitions, and they finished second in the league this season.

Kevin Danso

Kevin Danso completed a permanent move to Tottenham last summer, and he has been given a big role for them this season. Spurs have had plenty of injuries to contend with, which has worked to benefit Danso, and he will certainly not be lacking match sharpness heading into the World Cup.

Danso can be a useful player - he has the ability to launch the ball into the box from throw-ins, and his aggressive defensive style means he suits Ragnick’s high-pressure system.

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Keep up with Andy's Tips, including World Cup Predictions and World Cup 2026 Free Bet Offers, on Andy's Bet Club.

For World Cup outright betting, check out our World Cup Players to Watch Tips, World Cup Golden Boot Tips and World Cup Outrights Updates.

* I recommend waiting for confirmed team line-ups before placing any bets.

* All odds displayed correct at the time of publishing.