Austria coach Ralf Rangnick has warned his side against complacency ahead of their World Cup 2026 opener against debutants Jordan, highlighting the growing number of surprise results already seen at the tournament.
Austria return to the global stage after a 28-year absence and begin their Group J campaign in Santa Clara against a Jordan side making their first World Cup appearance. Rangnick said recent results have shown that no match can be taken lightly, pointing to a series of early shocks involving teams from Asia and beyond.
He noted that several European and South American sides have already dropped points in the opening phase, stressing that Austria must be at their best to avoid becoming another upset. Jordan, he said, are likely to be disciplined defensively and quick on the counter-attack, making them an uncomfortable opponent.
Austria’s preparations have been affected by the absence of midfielder Christoph Baumgartner due to injury, a setback given his importance to the team’s pressing style. Rangnick, however, said the rest of the squad is fit and ready, with no further injury concerns reported ahead of kickoff.
The match will be played in a packed Bay Area stadium with around 65,000 spectators expected, and Rangnick acknowledged that communication could be challenging in a noisy environment. He added that hydration breaks may help provide opportunities to adjust tactics and communicate with players during the game.
Austria are aiming to start strongly in a tough Group J that also includes Algeria and Argentina, with Rangnick stressing the importance of focus and discipline in what he expects to be a highly competitive opener.
FIFA
