Will Austria match-winner Nnodim soon play for Austria?

The relief at Austria Wien is immense.

After two opening defeats and facing the worst start to a season in the club's history, the Violets celebrated their first Bundesliga victory of the 2026/27 season on Matchday 3 with a 2-0 win at TSV Hartberg (to the match report >>>).

With this, Austria passes the red lantern to the East Styrians and climbs to ninth place. For coach Stephan Helm, the manner of the victory was particularly important.

"The most important thing is that we have the readiness to correct each other's mistakes, that we tackle balls away in the penalty area, and that we kept a clean sheet again," Helm explained after the match in a "Sky" interview.

"We Make the Best of It"

The starting position for the Violets was anything but easy. Just three days earlier, Austria had to play for over 120 minutes in the Conference League return leg against Beitar Jerusalem before prevailing in a penalty shootout. For load management reasons, Helm heavily rotated the squad in Hartberg – bringing seven new players into the starting XI.

"It's simply a challenge when you've had such an emotional high three days ago and then have to rebuild the focus," says the Austria coach.

Helm is particularly pleased that the team delivered a cohesive performance despite the heavy workload. "I saw a team that performed very unitedly. However, it must also be acknowledged that we are constantly playing in different configurations."

Nnodim Bags Debut Goal

One player who was once again on the pitch from the start despite the exertions was Daniel Nnodim. The 18-year-old had already played 105 minutes against Beitar Jerusalem and was allowed to start in Hartberg as well.

"Yes, a little bit," Nnodim admits when asked if he was surprised by his involvement. "Especially after such an intense game where I played 105 minutes. I don't know if everyone can do that. I tried to give my best."

It paid off: In the 33rd minute, Nnodim scored his first Bundesliga goal with a spectacular shot, putting Austria on the winning track.

"That Was a Great Feeling"

According to his own statement, he initially didn't have a good feeling about the shot. "Honestly, I thought I hit it badly and that it would go anywhere." Instead, the ball impressively found the top right corner.

"That was a great feeling," Nnodim says about his debut goal.

Helm is also impressed by the youngster. "Daniel is someone who, from day one, has tried to immediately implement what he is told. He did very well today and was able to help the team a lot with his goal."

Nnodim Faces Decision Between Austria and Germany

Nnodim could play an important role for Austria in the coming years. His contract expires next summer, and talks about an extension are already underway.

"I would say that negotiations are going well. So yes, there are talks," the 18-year-old reveals. With a suitable offer, he can well imagine staying in Vienna: "If the offer is right, I'll naturally stay."

However, another personnel decision is even more exciting. Nnodim was born in Vienna and trained in Austria, but currently holds only German citizenship due to his parents. This means he could decide whether to play for Austria or Germany in the future.

A decision is apparently imminent.

"I've actually been playing here in Austria since I was born. I just have to discuss this thoroughly with my parents and my agent, and then I'll make a decision in the next few days," Nnodim announces.

"Two Bonus Matches" against Braga

However, Austria doesn't have much time to catch its breath. An international top team awaits this coming Thursday in SC Braga. The Portuguese side reached the semi-finals of the Europa League last season.

Helm nevertheless sees the two play-off matches as an opportunity: "I think we've earned two real bonus matches, and of course, we now want to get the most out of them."

For now, however, the Austria coach is enjoying the first Bundesliga victory. "Right now, I'm very glad that we could get points on the board in the Bundesliga."

The next challenge is already waiting this Thursday in Braga. The return leg takes place a week later in Vienna – with the big goal of qualifying for an international competition again for the first time since the 2022/23 season.