Austria Begin With Authority as Jordan Pay for Early Lapses

There was little of the nervous tension that often marks an opening fixture about Austria's performance at Levi's Stadium. From the outset they pressed with intent and moved the ball with a clarity of purpose that Jordan, for all their willingness, could not match. By the time the contest had settled into its rhythm, Austria had already established the kind of lead that allows a side to dictate terms rather than chase them.

Jordan were not without their moments. Their best spell arrived when they finally committed numbers forward and forced Austria onto the back foot, and the goal they earned for their efforts was no more than the play deserved. Yet the structure that had served them through qualification looked stretched against opponents who circulated possession patiently and probed for the gaps that inevitably appeared.

Austria's third goal removed any lingering doubt and confirmed the gulf in experience between the two sides on the night. The European side defended their advantage without alarm, content to let Jordan have the ball in areas where it posed no threat. It was a mature display rather than a spectacular one, and the result will have pleased a coaching staff wary of group-stage complacency.

For Jordan, there is encouragement to be drawn from the manner in which they refused to fold, but the margin underlines the work that remains if they are to progress. Austria, meanwhile, take three points and a measure of momentum into the matches ahead, having answered the first question of their tournament with the minimum of fuss.