Austria Returns to World Cup After 28 Years, Wins Opening Match 3-1 Against Jordan

2026 FIFA World Cup Highlight News

(CNA reporter Chen Jung-chen, Taipei, June 17) In the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Austria faced Jordan in their opening Group J match. Thanks to midfielder Romano Schmid's precise long-range shot from outside the penalty area and an opponent's own goal, Austria triumphed 3-1. This victory marks Austria's first win since returning to the World Cup after a 28-year absence.

Austria, which once claimed third place at a World Cup, had failed to qualify for the tournament since 1998. After 28 years, they have returned to the World Cup stage. Group J includes defending champions Argentina, Jordan, and Algeria, with Austria aiming to advance past the group stage and reach the knockout rounds.

Austria hosted their opening group match in San Francisco, USA, facing Jordan, Asia's debutant in the tournament. The match began cautiously as both teams probed each other's defenses. Austria took the initiative early, with Schmid scoring in the 21st minute with a sharp-angled long-range shot from outside the box, giving Austria a 1-0 lead.

However, just under five minutes into the second half, Jordan showed resilience and launched a swift counterattack. Ali Olwan received a pass, carried the ball past midfield, and fired a long-range shot into the net, equalizing the score and marking Jordan's first-ever World Cup goal in history.

Austria remained composed. Although a goal in the 70th minute was disallowed for handball, they regained the lead in the 76th minute from a corner kick that led to an own goal by Jordan. Then, in stoppage time, 37-year-old veteran Marko Arnautovic calmly converted a penalty kick to seal the victory. Austria ultimately won 3-1, opening their 2026 World Cup campaign with a strong performance. (Edited by Lin Shu-hui) 1150617

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