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The Austrian U19 national team (born 2007) is heading into a pivotal week as they travel to Frankfurt for the final qualifying round on the road to the UEFA U19 EURO 2026. Led by head coach Martin Scherb, the squad will compete in a mini‑tournament at the DFB Campus, where only the group winner will secure a coveted ticket to next summer’s European Championship in Wales.
Austria opens the campaign against Greece on March 25, followed by a clash with Sweden on March 28, before closing the group in a high‑stakes showdown against host nation Germany on March 31.
Scherb expressed confidence and anticipation ahead of the decisive matches: “We’re heading to Germany with the clear goal of winning the group and qualifying for the EURO. The team is hungry for this challenge, and we’ll need three top performances to achieve it.”
Spotlight on Daniel Mahiya
Among the promising talents selected is Daniel Mahiya, the Austrian‑Filipino midfielder who currently plays for SK Rapid II. Mahiya’s inclusion in the U19 squad highlights his rapid development and growing reputation within Austrian football. Known for his technical skill, composure on the ball, and versatility in midfield, he represents one of the exciting dual‑heritage players shaping the future of the national team.
For Mahiya, this tournament marks another milestone in his international journey — and an opportunity to make a strong impression on the European stage.
A Balanced but Challenging Group
Austria has faced all three opponents before, and Scherb expects tight contests once again. “The group is very balanced. Small details will decide the outcome. Our job as a coaching team is to ensure the players are ready at the exact moment it counts.”
The 2007 generation has already proven its quality. The squad qualified for the U17 EURO ahead of Spain and has won every U17 and U19 qualifying group they’ve played so far. Out of 13 competitive matches, they’ve recorded nine victories, losing only once — the U17 EURO quarterfinal against Serbia.
Squad Updates
Austria will be nearly at full strength. While Konstantin Aleksa and Adrian Riegel are unavailable, Thierry Fidjeu‑Tazemeta and Philipp Moizi return to the lineup. Earlier this year, the team completed a training camp at the ÖFB Campus to fine‑tune their tactical principles ahead of the elite round.
The Road to Wales
The UEFA U19 EURO 2026 will take place from June 28 to July 11 in Wales. With only the group winner advancing, Austria faces a demanding but achievable mission.
For Daniel Mahiya and his teammates, the week ahead could define their path toward a major international tournament — and perhaps mark the beginning of a new chapter in Austrian youth football.
- Hector Pascua/picture: (1) Facebook
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