Romania vs Austria prediction 12.10.2025 | World Cup Qualification 2026

Romania’s form has been patchy in this qualifying campaign so far. They started with two defeats in three after losing to Bosnia on the opening matchday and falling short against Austria in matchday three. A 2-2 draw away at Cyprus in September 2025 was a particularly painful one to take, as these two points dropped could prove crucial in the race for a playoff spot. Romania have demonstrated some attacking presence (10 goals scored) but also lapses defensively like in a game against Cyprus or even managing to concede against San Marino.

Some fresh names have been included in the squad, such as Lisav Eissat, to add depth. However, defender Radu Drăgușin remains unavailable as he continues his recovery from an ACL injury.

Austria are in excellent qualifying shape, having recorded five wins in succession and are on route to automatic qualification for the World Cup 2026. They have won all their Group H matches to date, including an eye-catching 10-0 thrashing of San Marino on Thursday, with multiple goals from different players - in fact, all ten outfield players made an assist or a goal contribution against San Marino. Their scoring rate is really high (19 goals in 5 games), averaging nearly 4 goals per game, and defensively they have also looked solid, especially away from home, having only conceded 2 goals so far.

Austria do face the challenge of maintaining intensity, especially if they are pressured in away fixtures; their defensive organisation will be tested by Romania’s counter-attacks and ability to exploit set pieces. However, forwards Marko Arnautovic and Michael Gregoritsch have been in impressive form - they have already scored 9 goals put together.