Google Pixel Frauen-Bundesliga The 2025/2026 ÖFB Frauen Bundesliga season kicks off in mid-August, and the opening already promises plenty of intrigue. The first matches will be played on August 15–16, and fans can expect fierce competition along with a few games that will set the tone for the season. The headline of the opening round is the defending champions SKN St. Pölten, who will begin their campaign at home. Below is an overview of the most important information about the league and what to expect from the upcoming weekend.
Competition format in brief
ÖFB Frauen Bundesliga is the highest level of women’s football in Austria. The 2025/2026 season will be played in the classic round-robin league format — each team plays at home and away. Three points for a win, one for a draw, none for a loss. The season starts in mid-August and runs until the spring of the following year. The league champion earns a place in European competition, including the expanded group stage of the UEFA Women’s Champions League, which this season operates under a new format involving 18 teams.
Who to watch in the first round?
- SKN St. Pölten W — defending champions and natural favorites. They have the experience and stability that often makes the difference at the end of the season.
- LASK W — a club that worked hard on reinforcements during the preseason. Their offensive potential and fresh energy could give them a strong start to the season.
- Sturm Graz W — a team known for a physical style of play. They can cause problems for favorites, especially if they find their rhythm from the first minutes.
- First Vienna FC — a side that can be awkward opponents for top teams. As visitors at NV Arena, they will aim to make life difficult for St. Pölten.
Opening schedule and key matches
The key event of the opening is SKN St. Pölten’s home clash with First Vienna FC. The match will take place on August 15 at 20:30 at the NV Arena. It’s a symbolic start to the season, as St. Pölten opens the competition as the reigning champions.
Other matches of the first weekend are played the following day. Worth noting is the clash between LASK Women and Sturm Graz Women, scheduled for August 16.
Trends and stats to watch
- St. Pölten has shown stability in both attack and defense in recent seasons. This means expectations are high, and every other club will want to start the season by upsetting the champions.
- Home advantage matters. Stadiums and fan support often influence results, especially in the opening rounds when teams are still finding their best form.
- LASK’s young talents and new signings could shake things up. Teams that strengthened their squads and give more time to young players may gain a long-term advantage in game dynamics.
- Austria Wien and other mid-table teams will be fighting for stability, so expect tight matches and small score differences in games between these sides.
Opening round predictions
- SKN St. Pölten vs First Vienna FC (August 15) — St. Pölten, as hosts, are the favorites. An attacking start to the season from the champions is expected, but First Vienna may put up strong resistance and fight for points.
- LASK W vs Sturm Graz W (August 16) — a balanced encounter. LASK has the advantage of a young squad and fresh energy, while Sturm Graz can be very tactically disciplined. A typical match that could end with a minimal scoreline or a draw.
Fans should prepare for a weekend full of football excitement. The season is only beginning, but in several matches right from the start we’ll see signs of who will fight for the top prizes and who will focus on consolidating form.
