The playoffs are assured for Austria, and the exact path to the World Cup is still open. Patience and goals count against North Macedonia.

Ween. Austria’s footballers have scored three goals in their last five matches and need at least six goals to complete World Cup qualification. Unlike the European Championship and the recent match against England, North Macedonia today (8.30 pm, live ORF Sport+) is a rival, as the first leg (6-0) showed, it is always possible. The ÖFB women are definitely second in the group, so the playoff ticket for the World Cup in Australia / New Zealand in 2023 is not in their hands, whether they can escape the first round after 0: 2 against the European champions. .

Unless Ireland win in Slovakia (1-1 first leg) the Austrians will have the chance to finish a top third in their group – a certainty before kick-off. In that case, a 6-1 or six-goal win over North Macedonia would be required, and no thrashing (10 or more goals) from Wales, Portugal and Scotland.

Focus does not change

Irene Furman says players can’t be banned from looking at their cell phones, but the outcome of a parallel game shouldn’t change their focus on their own game. “It’s about us, getting a good feel for October,” admits team boss and midfielder Sarah Sadrasil. “We can’t influence everything else and we won’t change the way we play.”