Austria finally tasted victory on football’s biggest stage again after a wait of 36 years, defeating World Cup debutants Jordan 3-1 in an entertaining Group J clash on Wednesday to register their first win at the tournament since 1990.Back at the World Cup after missing the previous six editions, Austria overcame a spirited challenge from Jordan with a late own goal and a stoppage-time penalty from veteran forward Marko Arnautovic to secure a memorable triumph.Austria’s last World Cup win had come against the United States during the group stage in Italy in 1990, making Wednesday’s success their first in more than three decades.
Schmid’s stunner gives Austria early control
Romano Schmid gave Austria the lead in the 20th minute, capping a flowing move with a stunning right-footed strike from the edge of the box after being picked out by Xaver Schlager. The goal put the Jordanian defence under pressure and rewarded Austria’s bright start.Jordan, making their first appearance at the World Cup, refused to back down and levelled five minutes into the second half. Ali Olwan led a swift counterattack and finished emphatically past Alexander Schlager, sparking wild celebrations among the large contingent of Jordanian supporters.
VAR drama and own goal turn the tide
The game then swung dramatically in Austria’s favour.Substitute Arnautovic thought he had restored the lead after Jordan goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila spilled a corner into a crowded area. However, a VAR review spotted a handball by Stefan Posch in the build-up and the goal was ruled out.Austria were not denied for long. Moments after the second-half cooling break, another dangerous corner caused havoc in the Jordan penalty area and defender Yazan Al Arab inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 76th minute.Jordan pushed forward in search of another equaliser but were punished deep into stoppage time when Arnautovic converted from the penalty spot to seal a 3-1 victory.
Historic night sets up Argentina showdown
The result dashed Jordan’s hopes of becoming the first nation since Senegal in 2002 to win on its World Cup debut.Austria will now face defending champions Argentina and Lionel Messi in Texas on Monday, while Jordan return to Santa Clara to take on Algeria in a crucial encounter after the North Africans suffered a 3-0 defeat to Argentina in the opening Group J match.
