Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the World Cup qualifying match.
This is a pivotal fixture for Bosnia and Herzegovina above all. They were initially seen as far less likely contenders for top spot in Group H, but after five rounds they lead the section. Austria are second with a game in hand.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
In their first four matches of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, Bosnia and Herzegovina took the maximum 12 points. The fixtures have been favourable. The only strong opponent were Romania, albeit in Bucharest. An early goal in the 14th minute proved decisive. They then largely had to defend, but they withstood 15 shots; Romania managed only three on target. Overall, their home form has not been a fortress for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Before the current three-match unbeaten run, there were five straight home defeats because they were facing powerful opponents, equal to or stronger than Austria.
Austria
Austria have also avoided slip-ups in qualifying so far; they have simply played one game fewer. The sternest test was likewise Romania, but Austria won 2:1 at the Ernst Happel Stadium. Romania’s goal only came in the 95th minute. Since Euro 2024, away from home Austria have only beaten Kazakhstan (2:0) and San Marino (4:0), both of lower calibre. Against roughly comparable opponents, the best return has been a draw, as with Slovenia (1:1).
Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Austria Prediction
It is hard to see Austria losing here, because the teams who have beaten them recently — Norway and Serbia — have clear star quality. Bosnia and Herzegovina lack such match-winners, so we take the hosts (+1) on the handicap.
