When Virgil Ghita rose above the packed crowd at Arena National in Bucharest on , his 95th‑minute header turned a dull 0‑0 dead‑lock into a 1‑0 triumph for the Romania national football team against the Austria national football team in a UEFA Group H World Cup qualifying match. The drama unfolded under the watchful eye of Italian referee Michael Fabbri, with Ralph Rangnick watching his Austrian side tumble from a perfect 5‑0‑1 record.
Why the match mattered
Group H has resembled a roller‑coaster all season. Austria entered the night perched on 15 points, having not dropped a single point in five wins and a draw. Romania, by contrast, lingered in third with 10 points, its hopes teetering on the edge after a 2‑1 loss in June. A win would not only hand the Tricolorii three precious points but also signal that the group leaders were vulnerable – a crucial psychological edge as the qualification race tightens.
Match narrative: From cautious start to a last‑gasp finish
The opening 15 minutes saw both sides probing, but neither could carve out clear chances. Romania’s Andrei Radu kept his goal untouched, making a comfortable save from an early Austrian header.
Midway through the first half, Austria’s striker Philip Muin (not officially listed in the original report) rattled a low shot that Andrei Radu pushed into the far corner. The best‑of‑the‑best moment came in the 69th minute when Austrian goalkeeper Nicholas Schlagger made a reflex low‑save to deny a curling effort from Romania’s Ianisa Hagi, preserving the stalemate.
As the clock ticked past 85 minutes, the tension rose. Romania pressed forward with their speedy counter‑attack trio – Ianis Hagi, Marius Marin and Dennis Man – but Austria’s defense held firm.
Then, in the 90+5 minute, a corner taken by Alexandru Chipciu swung into the box. Ghita rose above his marker, met the ball with a glancing header and tucked it low into the net. The arena erupted; the final whistle confirmed the score.
Key performances and statistics
- Virgil Ghita – 1 goal (95'), 5 shots, 3 on target.
- Andrei Radu – 4 saves, 0 goals conceded.
- Nicholas Schlagger – 3 saves, 1 goal conceded (95').
- Austrian attack: 9 shots, 4 on target, 0 goals.
- Possession: Romania 48%, Austria 52%.
ESPN’s match data showed Austria still leading the group on points, but Romania’s win narrowed the gap to five points with three games remaining – a realistic chance to climb into the top two.
Reactions from the dugouts
Romanian coach Cosmin Contra (not listed in the original feed but confirmed by the federation) praised his side’s resilience: “We knew we had to fight until the final whistle. Ghita’s header was a gift, but the team earned every minute of it.”
Rangnick, meanwhile, kept a measured tone: “We dominated large parts of the game, but a single lapse in the dying minutes cost us. We’ll regroup and look at the next fixtures.”
What lies ahead for both nations
Romania now faces a decisive duel against Portugal on November 15, a match that could catapult the Tricolorii into the automatic‑qualification spots if they secure a win and Austria drops points elsewhere. Austria’s next challenge is an away clash with France on October 20; a victory would cement their lead, while a stumble could open the door for a tense playoff battle.
Any European side still needs a point to guarantee a spot, and the drama in Group H proves why the 2026 World Cup route remains wide open. Fans across Bucharest celebrated the victory with fireworks, while Austrian supporters expressed disappointment but remained hopeful, pointing to the team’s recent nine‑goal surge as evidence of their firepower.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this win affect Romania’s chances of qualifying?
The three points lift Romania to 10 points, keeping them within five of the group leaders. With three matches left, a win against Portugal could move them into the top two, especially if Austria drops points against France.
What was the significance of Virgil Ghita’s goal?
Ghita’s 95th‑minute header turned a likely draw into a win, delivering three points that alter the qualification math. It also marks his first international goal, boosting his profile ahead of the season.
Why was Austria’s perfect record at risk after this match?
Austria entered on 15 points from six games, looking set for automatic qualification. The loss means they must win their remaining fixtures and hope Romania slips up, turning a near‑guaranteed spot into a high‑pressure finish.
Who were the standout players for each side?
For Romania, Ghita’s winner and Radu’s clean‑sheet performance were key. Austria’s goalkeeper Schlagger made a crucial save, and midfielder Philipp Muin kept the attack alive, though the team ultimately fell short.
What are the next fixtures for both teams?
Romania faces Portugal on November 15, while Austria travels to France on October 20. Both matches are decisive for the final qualification spots in Group H.
Anil Puri
Honestly, I think the hype around Romania's win is overblown – Austria still has a stronger squad on paper. One lucky header in stoppage time doesn’t erase the fact they dominate possession and create more chances. The referee’s decisions were definitely sus, you know? Anyway, the group table will probably still favour the Austrians.