Back-to-back wins to start their WCQ campaign had put Austria on the right path as they look to qualify for a first World Cup since 1998.
Cyprus, meanwhile, had won just one of their three matches prior to kick-off, pouring cold water on any hopes that they could reach the first major tournament in their history.
The first half was an even, albeit quiet, affair. Neither side created many chances, as Konrad Laimer shot wide before Phillipp Mwene curled past the post.
At the other end, visiting centre-back Konstantinos Laifis fired straight at Alexander Schlager from distance with what was one of only two shots on target from either side in the opening period.
While the first half lacked goalmouth action, the second made up for it.
Despite not testing Cyprus goalkeeper Fabiano Freitas before the break, Austria broke the deadlock from the penalty spot within 10 minutes of the restart after Fabiano fouled Christoph Baumgartner, with captain Marcel Sabitzer converting from 12 yards.
That goal opened the game up, as substitute Michael Gregoritsch was denied by Cyprus’ shot-stopper, while Schlager needed to be alert to thwart Ioannis Pittas. Baumgartner was busy throughout, and only Fabiano’s reactions stopped his backheel from nestling in the back of the net.
In a bizarre turn of events, the game was delayed due to a hole appearing in the field’s soil. After play resumed, Stefan Posch hammered a shot over the crossbar from inside the area as Austria looked to put the game to bed.
Ultimately, they were unable to find another goal, but they still managed to see the game out. They stay second in Group H as a result, while they have now won seven of their eight meetings with Cyprus.
The island nation, meanwhile, are now only separated from last place by minnows San Marino. They cannot afford many more slip-ups, if any at all, if they are to make history and book their spot in next year’s finals.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Christoph Baumgartner (Austria)