Lothar Matthäus is firmly convinced that Austria will play a significant role at the upcoming football World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada (11 June to 19 July). “Austria can go into this World Cup without pressure; I certainly think the team is capable of reaching the round of 16. Only the World Cup title is out of reach,” said the Interwetten expert. The fact that the team from the Alpine republic is allowed to compete on the biggest stage for the first time since 1998 pleases the German record international. “28 years of waiting is enough; the players have earned this World Cup participation with intense, modern football, just as much as the fans.”
One player from the neighboring country Matthäus could easily picture in a DFB shirt: “I would give Konny Laimer a German passport immediately; he would be a guaranteed starter for me in the national team, just as he is at FC Bayern Munich, at right back.”
Peter Stöger, likewise an Interwetten expert, has also been pleased with his Austrians’ recent performances. “The way we have performed in many qualifying matches—namely with courage and aggressive pressing—makes us an extremely uncomfortable opponent. The big question will be whether we can maintain this style throughout under the conditions in America,” said the former Bundesliga coach from Vienna. “But one thing is certain: Austria does not need to hide and can go far on the wave of euphoria in Austria.” When it comes to favorites, both agree.
For Matthäus and Stöger, the title will go through England, France, and Spain.
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from Vimeo. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
More Information
