Queens Park Rangers continued their pre-season preparations with a convincing 3-1 victory over Austrian lower-league side 1. Fortuna Wiener Neustädter SC on July 17, 2026. The friendly, played at the Fortuna Stadion in Wiener Neustadt, provided valuable minutes for QPR's squad as they build towards the upcoming Championship season.

Match Overview

Facing a team from the Austrian Regionalliga (third tier), QPR were expected to dominate, and they did not disappoint. The London side controlled possession from the first whistle and created numerous chances. Despite a spirited effort from the hosts, the gulf in class was evident, with QPR's superior fitness and technical ability shining through.

Key Moments

• 12' – QPR take the lead: A well-worked move down the right flank ended with a low cross being turned in by the striker from six yards.
• 28' – QPR double the lead: A long-range effort from outside the box took a deflection and looped over the home goalkeeper.
• 55' – 1. Fortuna Wiener Neustädter pull one back: A counter-attack caught the QPR defence flat-footed, and the home forward finished calmly to make it 2-1.
• 67' – QPR restore the two-goal cushion: A penalty was awarded after a handball in the box, and the designated taker sent the goalkeeper the wrong way.
• 82' – Missed chances: QPR had two efforts cleared off the line in the closing stages, preventing a more emphatic scoreline.

Tactical Observations

Queens Park Rangers employed a 4-3-3 formation with a high defensive line, aiming to press the Austrian side in their own half. The opening two goals came from quick transitions, highlighting their pace on the wings. 1. Fortuna Wiener Neustädter SC set up in a compact 4-4-2, hoping to frustrate QPR, but they struggled to keep the ball for extended periods. Their goal came from a rare moment of quality on the break.

Standout Players

• QPR's left winger: Direct and dangerous throughout, he provided two assists and was a constant threat with his dribbling.
• QPR's holding midfielder: Dominated the midfield battle, winning tackles and distributing the ball effectively. He also scored the second goal.
• 1. Fortuna Wiener Neustädter SC's striker: Gave a good account of himself, scoring the consolation goal and holding the ball up well against stronger opponents.

Pre-season Context

This match was part of QPR's Austrian training camp, where they are fine-tuning their tactics ahead of the 2026-27 Championship season. The victory adds to an unbeaten pre-season record so far, with the team showing positive signs in both attack and defence. For the Austrian side, the friendly provided a valuable test against professional opposition and a chance to measure their progress before their league campaign begins.