Austria 5-1 Ghana: Chukwuemeka Shines On Debut As Austria Boost World Cup Prep

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Austria stepped up World Cup preparations with a dominant 5-1 win over Ghana in Vienna, highlighted by a debut goal from Carney Chukwuemeka. The friendly offered Austria another strong attacking display and gave coaching staff a closer look at squad options before the tournament.

Marcel Sabitzer played a central role in the scoreline. Sabitzer converted a first-half penalty, then after the break set up Michael Gregoritsch with a short square pass for 2-0. Stefan Posch added a third with a header, before Jordan Ayew replied for Ghana.

Chukwuemeka, who entered as a 61st-minute substitute, quickly made an impact. The Borussia Dortmund midfielder traded passes with Sabitzer, then drove a left-footed shot high into the net for Austria’s fourth. Nicolas Seiwald later curled in from around 25 yards to complete the 5-1 score.

Earlier this month, Chukwuemeka confirmed the decision to play for Austria, having been eligible for England, France and Nigeria. Chukwuemeka had represented England up to under-20 level, yet chose Austria and impressed here, scoring with an effort carrying an expected goals value of 0.4.

Despite coming off the bench, Chukwuemeka recorded four touches in the box, the joint-highest for Austria. Chukwuemeka completed 10 of 11 passes and needed only one attempt to score. These numbers supported the strong visual impression from Austria’s latest World Cup warm-up game.

Other World Cup preparations brought a convincing result for Egypt, who beat Saudi Arabia 4-0 without the injured Mohamed Salah. Islam Issa, Trezeguet, Zizo and Omar Marmoush all found the net for the Pharaohs, who will face Belgium, New Zealand and Iran in Group G.

Iran, also placed in Group G, lost 2-1 to Nigeria in Turkiye as preparations continued. South Africa drew 1-1 with Panama, one of England’s group opponents at the upcoming tournament, adding another reference point for teams tracking World Cup form across different confederations.

The latest friendlies provided contrasting markers before the World Cup, with Austria and Egypt recording heavy wins, while Iran fell short. Performances from players such as Chukwuemeka, Sabitzer and Marmoush offered coaches further evidence as final tactical and selection decisions approach.