Austria enter this crucial UEFA Nations League playoff in strong form, particularly when playing at home.
Austria against Serbia in UEFA Nations League Relegation Battle – Betting Preview
Recent Form & Home Advantage
Austria team was unbeaten in their home group-stage matches, securing dominant victories against Norway (5-1) and Kazakhstan (4-0) before drawing with Slovenia (1-1). Their ability to control games at home has been a key factor in their recent success, and they will look to capitalize on this momentum against Serbia.
Ralf Rangnick’s side have lost just one of their last five Nations League matches (W3, D2, L1), and their only defeat came away from home against Norway. Their home performances have been particularly impressive, with Austria outscoring opponents 10-2 across their three home group matches.
Serbia, on the other hand, struggled in League A during the group stage, finishing third with just one win in six matches (W1, D3, L2). They also failed to score in three of their last five Nations League matches, highlighting their attacking struggles. Additionally, their away form has been worrying, with just two wins in their last nine away matches, excluding neutral venues.
Austria against Serbia – Head-to-Head Record & Psychological Edge
Austria hold a psychological advantage over Serbia, having won both of their most recent meetings. They claimed a 2-1 victory in a friendly in June 2024, with Christoph Baumgartner and Patrick Wimmer getting on the scoresheet.
Additionally, Austria defeated Serbia 3-2 in a World Cup qualifier in Vienna in October 2017, further demonstrating their ability to perform well against this opponent at home. Given their superior FIFA ranking (22nd vs. Serbia’s 32nd), Austria will be confident heading into this fixture, especially with Serbia struggling to win matches in recent months.
Key Team News & Squad Strength
Austria have been boosted by the return of key players David Alaba and Xaver Schlager, strengthening their defense and midfield. However, they will miss Leeds United defender Maximilian Wöber, along with Stefan Posch and Kevin Danso, due to injuries. Marcel Sabitzer is also out due to a knee injury, which is a blow, but they have enough squad depth to compensate.
Serbia, on the other hand, have several key absences, which could severely impact their performance. Star striker Aleksandar Mitrovic is unavailable due to health concerns, while Nikola Milenkovic, Strahinja Pavlovic, Andrija Zivkovic, and Aleksa Terzic are all suspended. The loss of Mitrovic in attack and Milenkovic in defense will significantly weaken both ends of the pitch for Serbia.
Tactical Matchup & Expected Outcome
Austria have been excellent at home, scoring freely and showing defensive solidity. Their ability to dominate possession and create chances will be key against a Serbian side that has struggled for goals.
Serbia’s lack of attacking firepower, coupled with defensive absences, will make it difficult for them to withstand Austria’s attacking pressure.
Austria’s recent performances suggest they have the ability to outclass Serbia, especially at home, where they have been dominant in the Nations League.
Austria against Serbia – Final Verdict
Austria’s strong home form, recent head-to-head advantage, and Serbia’s poor away performances and key absences make Austria the favorites to win this matchup. Given their ability to perform well in Vienna and Serbia’s struggles on the road, “Austria to Win” is the strongest prediction for this fixture, especially if you find odd bigger than 1.8, offered by the bookmakers.
