Austria manager Rangnick cautious about Jordan test in unpredictable World Cup

The Czech Republic fell 2-1 to South Korea last week, and then Australia spoilt Turkey's comeback to the World Cup stage with a 2-0 win.

Japan twice fought back to earn a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands on Sunday, while Group B favourites Switzerland were kept to a 1-1 draw by Qatar, four years after the Gulf state exited without a win as the 2022 hosts.

"This World Cup has thrown up many surprises," Rangnick told journalists on Monday at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, where Austria take on Jordan in their Group J opener.

"If you examine the matches and results, there have been 12 draws and only six wins. No South American side has managed a victory."

"This will not be an easy match. They will be a difficult opponent. They will try to draw us in, soak up the pressure, and then exploit the space for counter-attacks.

"That is what we anticipate from them tomorrow."

Austria bring an end to a 28-year absence from the global tournament when they face Jordan, two years after a promising Euro 2024 campaign where they finished top of their group before a last-16 defeat to Turkey.

A strong start against Jordan could be crucial if they are to progress from a difficult group that also includes Algeria and defending champions Argentina.

Austria were dealt a pre-tournament setback with the loss of central midfielder Christoph Baumgartner to a thigh injury, a player who epitomises their aggressive pressing style.

Rangnick offered no hints about his starting lineup but stated he had decided on the 11 to face Jordan last week and that all his players are fully fit.

With the match starting at 9 p.m. in the cool Bay Area evening, players may not need to stop in each half for the disputed hydration breaks, but Rangnick supports them.

"As a coach, it is beneficial because I can speak to the players, offer them guidance, and I believe there will be around 65,000 spectators in the stadium tomorrow," the German said.

"It will be very loud, so I cannot properly communicate with the players otherwise.

"Therefore, this will be an advantage as the team can regroup."