VIENNA, AUSTRIA – MARCH 27: Prince Kwabena Adu of Ghana (L) and Kevin Danso of Austria (R) fight for the ball during an international friendly match between Austria and Ghana at Ernst Happel Stadion on March 27, 2026 in Vienna, Austria. (Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images)
Austria are preparing for their first World Cup in 28 years with central defender Kevin Danso insisting the return is about ambition rather than survival, as the Tottenham defender underlined the unity driving Ralf Rangnicks side.
Speaking to Flashscore, the Austria international of Ghanaian descent described the emotion of reaching footballs biggest stage as deeply personal.
A lot of pride. When you’re a child, the World Cup is the biggest dream you can have. I’ve worked my whole life to experience moments like this, he said. Today, I mostly feel gratitude towards everyone who helped me get here, but also a lot of excitement.
Austrias absence from the tournament has spanned an entire generation, but Danso believes the current group is ready to change that narrative.
We know we have the chance to write an important chapter in Austrian football history, he said. Theres real unity and a strong collective mentality.
The defender, who has developed across several European leagues, believes he is arriving at the tournament at the peak of his powers. I feel more complete, more mature, and calmer than ever, he explained.
Danso also highlighted his leadership role within the squad, stressing influence through performance rather than words.
I try to lead by example every day, through my work, my attitude, and on the pitch, he said.
Austrias identity under Rangnick, he added, is built on intensity and discipline. No one is above the group, Danso said. We want to be aggressive in a positive way, press high, and play with energy.
