Austria began their UEFA Nations League campaign with a 3-1 victory over Israel on Thursday, scoring twice in the closing stages to secure all three points in League B.
Austria took the lead in the 37th minute after Sasa Kalajdzic was brought down inside the box by Idan Nachmias.
Romano Schmid stepped up and calmly converted the resulting penalty, sending Israel goalkeeper Daniel Peretz the wrong way.
The hosts had chances to extend their advantage before the break, with Stefan Posch heading wide and Peretz making a crucial save to deny Austria again.
Israel levelled shortly after the restart when Sayed Abu Farchi rose highest to power a header beyond Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.
However, the visitors were reduced to 10 men almost immediately after Abu Farchi was shown a second yellow card for picking up the corner flag during his celebration.
Austria pressed for a winner but were repeatedly frustrated by Peretz, who made several important saves to keep Israel in the contest.
The hosts finally broke through in the closing stages when Philipp Mwene met a pass from Paul Wanner at the back post and fired home to restore Austria’s lead.
Kalajdzic then sealed the victory moments later, finishing off a late attack to complete a 3-1 win and maintain Austria’s unbeaten home record against Israel at six matches.
The result gives Austria a winning start to their Nations League campaign, while Israel begin their League B return with a defeat.
