2026 World Cup Group J: Austria vs Jordan Preview, Odds and Predictions (June 16)
- When: Wednesday, June 17, 2026. 12:00 AM ET
- Where: Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco, California, United States
- How to Watch: FOX
The 2026 World Cup is underway with the second matchup in Group J getting underway in San Francisco as Austria takes on Jordan. These two squads will likely be in direct competition for a qualifying spot in the group, meaning that there will be pressure on both nations on MD1.
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Austria Stats & Team News
Having made six qualifications to the World Cup in the 20th century, Austria has finally clinched their first World Cup berth in the 21st century. The Austrians shined as the best squad in their qualifying group, winning six of their eight matches as they scored 22 goals and only conceded four times.
David Alaba stands out as the most experienced defender on the national team, having 113 caps under his belt while scoring 15 goals. Marcel Sabitzer looks to be aggressive in the midfield with 27 goals to show for it, while Marko Arnautovic commands the offense as the veteran striker boasts 47 goals throughout his international career.
Likely Lineup:
(4-2-3-1) Schlager (GK); Posch, Lienhart, Alaba, Laimer; Seiwald, Schlager; Schmid, Gregoritsch, Sabitzer; Arnautovic
Jordan Stats & Team News
Jordan made incredible waves by accomplishing a historic feat throughout its national team’s career: punching their first-ever ticket to the FIFA World Cup. They pulled off the achievement after winning eight of their 16 matches, scoring 32 goals while allowing just 12 goals.
However, Jordan’s momentum looks shaky going into their World Cup debut. They are going through a five-game winless streak, losing three and drawing twice. They made a solid run to the Arab Cup, losing in a 3-2 extra-time thriller to Morocco in the final. The national team will rely on Ali Olwan and Musa Al-Taamari to lead the attack and create the best chances possible, having scored 53 goals combined throughout their international careers so far.
Likely Lineup:
(3-4-3) Abulaila (GK); Obaid, Nasib, Al-Arab; Taha, Al Rashdan, Al-Rawabdeh, Haddad; Fakhouri, Olwan, Tamari
Head-to-Head Stats
- This is the first meeting between Austria and Jordan.
- This will be the first competitive meeting between the nations.
Austria vs. Jordan World Cup Picks
Jordan will be playing with house money as they stand out as massive underdogs in their group containing Argentina, Algeria and Austria. As for the Austrians, they have the tournament experience with their presence in the Euros, giving them a chance to be among the top three in Group J. However, anything can happen in the World Cup, meaning that both sides look to make statements in their group opener. It would be safe to believe that Austria takes this one by a 2-1 score.
