LEVI’s STADIUM, SANTA CLARA June 17, 2026 – Austria secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory over World Cup debutants Jordan in their opening Group J match, marking their first World Cup win since 1990 and ending a 36-year drought.
Romano Schmid gave Austria the lead in the 21st minute with a stunning curled effort. Jordan responded brilliantly early in the second half when Ali Olwan slotted home their historic first-ever World Cup goal in the 50th minute, sparking emotional celebrations from the debutants.
Austria regained the advantage in the 76th minute through a Yazan Al-Arab own goal, before Marko Arnautović sealed the win with a confidently struck penalty in the 12th minute of stoppage time — becoming Austria’s oldest World Cup scorer.
Match Summary
- Austria: Schmid 21′, Al-Arab (og) 76′, Arnautović (pen) 90+12′
- Jordan: Olwan 50′
- Venue: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara
- Attendance: 68,527 (approx.)
Under coach Ralf Rangnick, Austria showed quality and resilience despite Jordan’s spirited display. Jordan, ranked lower and appearing at their first World Cup, punched above their weight and created problems, particularly through forward Musa Al-Taamari and Olwan’s clinical finish.
The result gives Austria three crucial points in a tough Group J that also features Argentina and Algeria. Jordan, while disappointed, can take pride in their competitive debut and will look to cause further upsets in upcoming fixtures.
Rangnick described the performance as a “professional job,” while Jordan coach Jamal Sellami praised his team’s grit and fight.
Austria will now prepare for tougher tests ahead, while Jordan aims to build on this experience in their historic campaign.
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