Alaba and Austria victorious over the Faroe Islands

Austria have actually had a very poor World Cup qualifying campaign, and seem unable to reach Denmark or Scotland in the all important top two places. The Faroe Islands would offer little in the way of a challenge, so focus shifted to wear Real Madrid man David Alaba would be dispatched on the pitch. Left-back was his chosen position, although it has always become clear from watching Austria that Alaba tends to play anywhere he likes regardless. I chose Austria over the international period to get a good look at both Alaba and former Castilla product Philipp Lienhart who has come a long way - but for reasons unknown the latter was not in the squad.

The visiting side were not as dominant as you would initially expect, but with a well worked team goal through Konrad Laimer they found themselves ahead. The Austrians enjoyed far more of the ball, and created a large number of chances - but the home sides defensive approach managed to both frustrate them, and keep the score very low. This was until another well timed goal from new Bayern Munich man Marcel Sabitzer put the game out of sight for the Faroe Islands. Alaba himself wore the captains armband as usual, and had a solid game instigating things from the back. The added, albeit expected clean sheet was an extra bonus - but it will be the next game that will provide the real test. Top of the table Denmark have the power to end Austria’s hopes of progression in two days time, so that fixture really is make or break for Alaba and his men.