European Qualifiers: Austria defeat Moldova 2-1 in Group G

Austria claimed their first victory of the European Qualifiers with a 2-1 triumph over Moldova on Thursday night.

They opened with a 1-1 draw against Sweden and took the lead in Chisinau when David Alaba netted from the penalty spot.

Alexandru Dedov equalised with another effort from 12 yards but Marc Janko grabbed the winner before being sent off in the closing stages for a foul on Moldova goalkeeper Ilie Cebanu.

The Austrians had the lead after 14 minutes when Ion Jardan pulled back Janko in the box.

The defender went in the book before Alaba sent Cebanu the wrong way from the spot.

It was a cagey affair with neither side creating any clear-cut chances and it needed another penalty to bring the equaliser as Sebastien Prodl was booked for impeding Artur Ionita.

Dedov stepped up to slot home and Moldova were level just before the half-hour.

Alaba had a chance for a second before the break but Cebanu did well to keep out his free-kick before saving a Prodl effort from a corner.

The Bayern Munich full-back was having a fine evening and set up the goal that put the visitors ahead seven minutes after the break.

His outswinging corner found Janko, who headed powerfully past Cebanu.

The striker was then given his marching orders for his altercation with the keeper with seven minutes remaining, but Austria held on.