Romania’s national football team, led by Mircea Lucescu, suffered a crucial 2-1 defeat against Austria in a high-stakes qualifier that may significantly dent their hopes for direct World Cup qualification.
The match came on the heels of a mixed start for Romania in March, with a narrow 0-1 loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina followed by a commanding 5-1 win over San Marino. Entering the third round with just three points, the clash in Vienna was widely seen as decisive.
Under scrutiny for a questionable squad selection, Lucescu’s team faced immediate pressure from a well-organized Austrian side managed by Ralf Rangnick. The hosts dominated from kickoff, pressing high and disrupting Romania’s buildup play. „Tricolorii” were pinned back for long stretches, struggling to maintain possession or mount any meaningful attacks.
Austria’s first clear chance came in the 10th minute when Marcel Sabitzer fired a dangerous shot from inside the box, but Romanian goalkeeper Horațiu Moldovan made a double save. More warning signs followed: Wöber missed a golden opportunity in the 19th minute, and Sabitzer was again denied by Moldovan’s reflexes in the 41st.
Austria finally broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute. Following sustained pressure, Freiburg striker Michael Gregoritsch found space in the center of the box and slotted home with clinical precision, putting the home side ahead before the break.
The second half continued in similar fashion. Despite efforts to push forward, Romania remained on the back foot, and in the 59th minute, Bayern Munich’s Sabitzer doubled Austria’s lead with a powerful, slightly deflected strike from the edge of the area, leaving Moldovan helpless.
In response, Lucescu made attacking substitutions, introducing Denis Alibec and Florin Tănase. Romania showed late signs of life, and in stoppage time (90+4), Tănase managed to score a consolation goal with a well-placed header.
Italian referee Maurizio Mariani’s final whistle confirmed a deserved 2-1 win for Austria. With only three points from three matches, Romania’s path to direct qualification is now increasingly uncertain. Bosnia and Herzegovina, leading the group, have opened a significant gap, leaving the Tricolours with an uphill battle in the remaining fixtures.
