Austria national football team delivered a dominant performance to defeat Ghana national football team, the Black Stars 5-1 in an international friendly in Vienna, dealing a heavy blow to Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

‎The hosts took the lead early in the 12th minute when Marcel Sabitzer converted from the penalty spot after a handball by Ghana defender Jonas Adjetey. Sabitzer was influential throughout, orchestrating Austria’s attacking play.

‎Austria extended their advantage in the second half, with Michael Gregoritsch doubling the lead in the 51st minute before Stefan Posch added a third eight minutes later.

‎Ghana briefly showed signs of a comeback when captain Jordan Ayew pulled one back in the 77th minute. However, the response was short-lived as Carney Chukwuemeka restored Austria’s three-goal cushion just two minutes later.

‎Nicolas Seiwald sealed the emphatic victory deep into stoppage time, capping a comprehensive display by the home side.

‎The defeat will raise concerns for head coach Otto Addo as the Black Stars continue their build-up to the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

With another stern test against Germany to come, Ghana will be hoping to regroup quickly and address the defensive lapses exposed in Vienna.