Record champions Germany laboured to a 3-2 victory from an early two-goal deficit in Austria on Friday in a stuttering start into women's Euro 2025 qualifying.
Giulia Gwinn, standing in as captain for injured Alexandra Popp, got the winner in the 63rd minute via a controversial penalty in Linz, after goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger was ruled to have fouled substitute Laura Freigang.
Austria had led 2-0 after 16 minutes from Eileen Campbell's brace on a solo run and header, which was cancelled out by Klara Bühl, who also struck twice, from a distance in the 39th and off Sjoeke Nüskens in the 49th.
Eight-time champions Germany prevailed thanks to an improved performance in the second half and continue on Tuesday against Iceland who defeated Poland in the other Friday game. Poland next play Austria.
The two top-ranked teams from each group qualify directly for the 2025 Euros in Switzerland.