Ireland and Austria both have seven points after four matches and sit one point behind Sweden for a coveted playoff spot. This is a big match in Group C and while it won’t decide anything just yet, it could go a long way towards how things ultimately play out later this year.
Ireland vs. Austria, 2014 World Cup qualifying: Preview and TV schedule
Ireland and Austria both have the opportunity to take over second place from Sweden when they meet in Dublin in the Group C qualifier.
Ireland’s scoreless draw against Sweden allowed Giovanni Trapattoni’s side to both stay close to the Swedes and open the door for them to potentially jump into second place as Sweden don’t play another qualifier until the summer. Team captain Robbie Keane was forced to pull out of the match with a calf strain and he’s been replaced by Wolverhampton striker Kevin Doyle.
Austria are fresh off a 6-0 thumping of the Faroe Islands and will be looking to take over second place themselves with a win or a draw. Marcel Koller has no major injury issues to deal with and will have the likes of Philipp Hosiner (who scored twice against the Faroe Islands) and David Alaba available.
Match Date/Time: 8:45 p.m. local, 3:45 p.m. ET
Venue: Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland
TV: GolTV (U.S.), Sky Sports 2 (U.K.)
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