Football World Cup 2026: ÖFB Players Without Preferred Opponents Before Draw

"I can't even remember Austria ever playing in a World Cup, and now we're all going there together," said Konrad Laimer after the successful qualification for the Football World Cup 2026. "There's nothing better, there's nothing more beautiful." His disallowed goal for the equalizer was "fortunately completely irrelevant" in the end - even though the Bayern Munich player could not understand the decision after a slight push well before the goal was scored. "We're still playing football, and we're not playing 'I mustn't touch anyone'."

Draw for Football World Cup 2026 on December 5

At the World Cup, Laimer will be able to touch his opponents again. "Of course, we're not just going there to be present. We want to participate, show our football, and how we can play football," explained the Salzburg player. Much about the tournament, which has been expanded from 32 to 48 teams, is still "a bit new." For now, it's important to enjoy the moment. "Somehow the pressure has also fallen away, knowing that you've achieved it," Laimer described. "It's incredible emotions."

The World Cup is an even bigger tournament than the European Championship, emphasized defender Philipp Lienhart. "We always want maximum success. The World Cup is probably difficult, but we're going there to show good games." For now, it's important to wait for the draw on December 5. "But we're going into the tournament full of anticipation. We have a lot of experience and will try to give it our all in America."

Preferred Opponent for Football World Cup 2026? "We Beat Everyone"

Since he has been with the national team, he has always heard the goal of the World Cup, added offensive player Patrick Wimmer. "For the older players, it might be the last chance. Austria hasn't qualified for 28 years. I think it was a big deal for everyone." The big opportunity existed since the draw. Wimmer: "We got a good group, so we can say we're the favorite and maybe have to handle it."

Preferred opponent for the World Cup draw? "There isn't one," said Wimmer. "We beat everyone." You don't want to go to a World Cup just to be there, continued the Wolfsburg player. "Last year at the European Championship, we already had big goals, now we have the next one at the World Cup." Or as Marko Arnautovic put it: "Of course, when I'm there, I want to win it."

(APA/Red)

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