Austria vs Jordan: Rangnick's side the favourites

Group J's opening fixtures conclude with Austria vs Jordan at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. Argentina are clear group favourites, but the race for second is wide open, and Austria fancy themselves as a strong candidate. That makes victory here almost essential.

Ralf Rangnick's Austria are at a World Cup for the first time since 1998. But don't be fooled by that 28-year absence: this is a "dark horse" capable of troubling many of Europe's best. Since Rangnick took charge in 2022, Austrian soccer has undergone a major transformation, and the unity within the squad shows on the pitch.

Injuries have shaken up Austria's plans. Influential midfielder Christoph Baumgartner withdrew before the tournament, forcing Rangnick to rethink his attack. Star defender David Alaba has been battling injury but is expected to pass a late fitness test and slot into the defence. Borussia Dortmund's Carney Chukwuemeka, who switched from England to Austria this year, is preparing for his first major tournament.

Jordan, meanwhile, are at a World Cup for the first time in their history. For Jamal Sellami's side, the priority is a spirited showing; any dream of the round of 16 largely hinges on a positive result here. Jordan have their own significant absences: Ibrahim Sabra and Yazan Al Naimat are out. Their biggest danger is Rennes winger Mousa Tamari, who ended last Ligue 1 season with six goals and nine assists.

The predictions make Austria clear favourites. Rangnick's experienced, organised team are expected to dominate a Jordan side feeling the pressure of their first major tournament. SI.com's prediction: Austria 3-0.

Predicted XIs
Austria (4-2-3-1): A. Schlager; Laimer, Lienhart, Alaba, Mwene; X. Schlager, Seiwald; Schmid, Sabitzer, Gregoritsch; Arnautović
Jordan (3-4-3): Abulaila; Obaid, Al-Arab, Nasib; Haddad, Al Rashdan, Al Rawabdeh, Abu Taha; Tamari, Olwan, Fakhoury

Source: SI.com
Image: SI.com