Ireland appeared on course for victory after Troy Parrott scored twice before half-time, but Austria responded after the interval with goals from Alexander Prass and Michael Gregoritsch to rescue a point.
Parrott puts Ireland in control
Ireland made the perfect start when Parrott opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a superb finish.
The Tottenham striker then doubled Ireland’s advantage on the stroke of half-time, confidently converting a penalty to send the hosts into the break 2-0 ahead.
Austria struggled to turn their possession into goals during the opening half, while Ireland looked dangerous when attacking quickly.
Austria complete the comeback
Ralf Rangnick made changes at the interval, including bringing on Michael Gregoritsch, and Austria gradually increased the pressure.
The visitors finally reduced the deficit in the 72nd minute when substitute Alexander Prass found the net.
Austria needed only five more minutes to complete the comeback. Gregoritsch scored in the 77th minute to make it 2-2 and leave Ireland frustrated after surrendering their two-goal advantage.
The match was also interrupted during the first half after protests involving tennis balls being thrown onto the pitch and a pitch invader, briefly disrupting the contest.
Austria remain in the promotion race
The draw keeps Austria firmly in contention in Group B3 after three matches, while Ireland remain in the group’s promotion race.
Austria will take encouragement from their second-half response after recovering from a two-goal deficit away from home.
Full-time result
• Republic of Ireland: 2 – Troy Parrott 12', 45' (pen)
• Austria: 2 – Alexander Prass 72', Michael Gregoritsch 77'
Austria’s second-half fightback denied Ireland victory and ensured the points were shared in Dublin.