Germany vs. Austria: Date, Time, TV Info and Preview

When Group C leaders Germany and Austria face in a World Cup qualifier on Friday, history won't be on the side of the Austrians. 

Austria hasn't beaten Germany since 1986 and hasn't so much as drawn with the Germans since 1992. With this game being played in Munich, ending that painful drought won't be easy.

But David Alaba and company won't be intimidated; they know just how important this game is for an Austrian side fighting for its World Cup life. Let's break down this key Match C clash.

When: Friday, September 6 at 2:45 p.m. ET (7:45 p.m. BST)

Where: Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany

Watch: Univision Deportes (United States); BT Sport 2 (UK)

Key Storylines

While Germany seems in control of Group C with 16 points, there is a logjam behind them for second on the table, with Austria, Sweden and Ireland all sitting on 11 points. Austria currently tops the trio on goal differential, but coming away with any points in Munich would be a huge result for the Austrians.

Considering Ireland and Sweden play one another on Friday as well, any positive result for Austria will go a long way. And with Sweden taking on Austria and Germany facing Ireland on Tuesday, a whole lot could be set in motion in Group C over the next week. 

With just eight spots in the Round 2 playoff available only to group runners-up, this week is crucial for teams like Austria. 

While Germany will be without midfield hub Bastian Schweinsteiger and Lukas Podolski, the club will still bring Manuel Neuer, Philipp Lahm, Thomas Mueller, Mesut Ozil and Marco Reus, amongst others, to face Austria. 

In other words, good luck Austria. 

Prediction

Sometimes, it isn't wise to bet against history. Especially when history favors an extremely talented German side. 

All eyes will likely be on Ozil, the new Arsenal man, in this contest, but you would be hard-pressed to find a weakness on this German team. Even without Schweinsteiger in central midfield, the Germans can still turn to Sven or Lars Bender, Toni Kroos and Sami Khedira. 

And with exciting attacking midfield options in Mario Goetze, Ozil, Reus and Mueller, there is no shortage of firepower for this German side.

A German side playing in Munich, mind you. The Germans win, 2-0.