2023-06-19 17:57:27
With a home win against Sweden, the Austrian national team could open the door to the 2024 European Championships in Germany.
Three days after the draw with group favorites Belgium, the Austrian national football team has its next game on Tuesday (8:45 p.m.) in Vienna. Coach Ralf Rangnick’s team will meet Sweden in the European Championship qualifiers, which, along with Belgium, is the biggest competitor for one of the two European Championship tickets.
Positive record against Sweden
The ÖFB team could take a big step towards the 2024 finals in Germany at the Ernst Happel Stadium. If captain David Alaba and Co. win against the northerners, then the fourth EM participation is within reach. A look at the statistics fuels hopes of the sixth unbeaten game in a row: Austria have not yet lost a competitive game against Sweden at home and have a positive record against the Scandinavians overall. But not only the numbers give hope, but also the recent strong performances. The national team followed up the mandatory victories against Azerbaijan and Estonia on Saturday with a 1-1 draw against Belgium, after all number four in the world rankings.
Marcel Sabitzer in the starting XI?
But team manager Rangnick is also aware that a different style of play will be needed against Sweden than on Saturday. “The performance in Belgium was very good. But we will definitely have to act better with the ball. The players didn’t always stick to the plan.” Especially on the offensive, more solutions will be needed against a robust opponent. Marcel Sabitzer could take care of that: The England legionnaire showed great after his substitution in Belgium and even almost became the match winner. “Like Kevin Danso, he is fully operational and of course an issue for the starting XI,” said Rangnick. On the other hand, neo-Bayern kicker Konrad Laimer, who will not be in the squad against Sweden due to injury, is not available.
ÖFB kickers appear self-confident
The fact that the team players have gained a lot of self-confidence with their strong performances in recent months is becoming increasingly noticeable. “Our recent performances, even at the EURO, were very appealing. The more often we play well against top opponents, the more this self-image comes about. That’s why it’s important that we’re in the first division in the Nations League, so you play against them the good opponents and get the self-image,” emphasizes Xaver Schlager. Christoph Baumgartner is similarly self-confident: “We don’t have to hide from any opponent. Of course we’ll lose games again. But if we’re brave and bring our quality to the pitch, I’m convinced that we can hurt every team in the world .”
Ernst Happel Stadium probably sold out
Rangnick and his team can also rely on their fans. 42,000 tickets were sold on Monday, and it can be assumed that the Happel Stadium will be sold out with 45,000 spectators. “We have to get the crowd going and create a great atmosphere right from the start,” the team boss wants to continue inspiring the home fans with his attacking style of play. He is not afraid that his kickers will be exhausted after a long season and can no longer keep up his intensive game. “We regenerated very well after the Belgium game and will do everything to ensure that the players are fit on Tuesday.” While Austria had to give their all on Saturday, Sweden was able to prepare for the third group game in peace. National coach Janne Andersson’s team played a friendly against New Zealand on Thursday, but there were many reserves in the 4-1 win.
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