When the draw was made for the Euro 2016 Austria immediately stood out as the most dangerous team potentially blocking Portugal’s way to the knockout phase.
A record of 9 victories and 1 draw in 10 qualification matches to finish top of with Group G with an 8-point winning margin (ahead of Russia and Sweden) is an impressive calling card going into the tournament in France.
PortuGOAL asked Mario Sonnberger, the national team expert for the Austrian football magazine `ballesterer´ for the lowdown on Austria.
Austria had a very impressive qualification campaign after several years of disappointing results. What were the main changes that made Austria successful again?
Marcel Koller and his team were granted the time to build up a stable formation that has been playing together for years now. No-one panicked or questioned the coach when we missed Brazil. They created a strong collective, on and off the pitch, which compensates for the lack of extraordinary talent. Still, we are lucky to have some talented players in this generation. Way more than eight or ten years ago.
Who are Austria’s star players?
David Alaba (Bayern) is widely considered one of the best left backs in Europe. Defender Aleksandar Dragovic (Kiev) might move to a bigger club this summer. Zlatko Junuzovic (Werder Bremen) has made an impression in the German Bundesliga, so have Marko Arnautovic (Stoke) and captain Christian Fuchs (Leicester) in England.
What is Austria’s style of play and usual formation? Would you describe them as more of an attacking team or more of a defensive team?
Solid defensive work is the base for attacks. I would describe our team as well-balanced. They have scored in each of the 22 games they played since summer 2013. There is a bigger focus on creating chances now.
What are Austria’s strong points?
They’re very strong in physical terms. It’s unlikely they lose focus or get tired very soon. The opponent must go to great lengths to put them under pressure.
What are Austria’s weak points?
They’re quite predictable. There aren’t any surprises in terms of team selection and formation. Therefore it’s dangerous when too many players are out with injuries. On the pitch they’re vulnerable when the central midfield with Alaba and Junuzovic can be blocked or when there’s too much pressure on the wings.
What was the reaction to the Euro 2016 draw from Austrian fans and the media?
“Could have been worse.” Everyone is looking forward to the match against Hungary, which is a very traditional and often-played encounter. In the early days of European football and up until the 1950s both teams were among the best in Europe. Also, Austria has proven itself by now, so the fans and media have a good feeling about Portugal and Iceland as well. Luckily, no-one sees us as favourites.
How do you think Group F will finish?
I wouldn’t be surprised if many games ended in a draw. So maybe it’s POR-AUT-ISL-HUN, but it could be a close call.
Who do you think will win Euro 2016 and why?
France. They “need to”, as in 1998, and they have a promising team – even without Benzema. The World Cup came too early for Pogba and Griezmann, but this tournament might be theirs.
Related: Euro 2016 countdown - the lowdown on Iceland
Related: Euro 2016 - the lowdown on Portugal opponents Hungary
