Austria vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina: How to Watch, WCQ Preview

The Ernst Happel Stadion in Vienna is set to host a crucial World Cup qualifying match between Austria and Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. This match is pivotal for both teams' aspirations of securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

What's at Stake?

Austria currently sits atop Group H and needs only a draw to secure automatic qualification. Bosnia and Herzegovina, trailing by two points, must win to leapfrog Austria and directly qualify for the World Cup. A loss for Austria would mean heading to the play-offs in March. The stakes are incredibly high, with both teams fully aware that a victory in Vienna will pave their way to North America next summer.

How to Watch

For fans in Austria, the match will be broadcast live on Servus TV. Check your local listings for broadcast details in your region.

Form and Background

Austria has been in impressive form, winning six of their last seven matches in Group H. Their only setback was a narrow 1-0 defeat against Romania. In their most recent match, they secured a 2-0 victory over Cyprus, with Marko Arnautović scoring both goals. Arnautović has been in stellar form, recently becoming Austria's all-time top scorer. Despite their strong performances in the Euros, Austria has not qualified for a World Cup since France '98.

Bosnia and Herzegovina kept their qualification hopes alive with a 3-1 victory over Romania. Edin Džeko, Esmir Bajraktarević, and Haris Tabaković were the goalscorers in the comeback win. Bosnia has lost only once in this campaign, a 2-1 defeat to Austria in September. They will need to overcome their history against Austria, having only won once in six encounters.

Team News

Austria will welcome back key players, including captain David Alaba and left-back Phillipp Mwene, who were both suspended for the previous match. Florian Grillitsch and Michael Gregoritsch could also return to the lineup. Marcel Sabitzer is hoping to reach his 100th cap at the World Cup.

Predicted Austria Lineup:

(4-2-3-1): Schlager; Posch, Danso, Alaba, Mwene; Laimer, Seiwald; Schmid, Baumgartner, Sabitzer; Arnautović.

Bosnia will be without Nihad Mujakic and Ivan Sunjic due to suspension. Sead Kolasinac has recovered from injury and returns to the squad. Edin Džeko, the team's captain and all-time top scorer with 72 goals, will lead the attack.

Key Match Facts

• Austria has won two, drawn three, and lost one of their six matches against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Austria is unbeaten at home in all competitions this year.
• Bosnia and Herzegovina have scored in all of their seven qualifying matches.
• Austria has lost only one of their last 16 home international matches.

Prediction

While Bosnia and Herzegovina need the win and have the firepower to cause problems, Austria's home form and the return of key players give them a slight edge. A narrow Austria victory is anticipated.

Predicted score: Austria 2-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina.