It’s perhaps a little premature to call Marcel Koller’s side the ‘Golden Generation’, but they are not far off. A lack of genuine world-class players has held back previous versions of the Austrian team but they now have dynamism and style, spearheaded by Bayern Munich’s David Alaba. It is frightening that at 23, the versatile star is able to take on such a huge level of responsibility – and thrive.
One of the most impressive sides during the qualification process, they turned heads with a 4-1 victory over Sweden to indicate the promise within this squad. And Alaba is not their only player with talent either. It’s important to point out that of the 12 Austrians to have ever played in the Premier League four of them are currently doing so (Stoke’s Marco Arnautovic is joined by Leicester’s Christian Fuchs, Tottenham’s Kevin Wimmer and Watford’s Sebastian Prodl in the squad).
Austrian football is on the crest of a wave and it could well culminate in a surprise run at this championship. They will duel with Portugal to top the standings but qualification to the knockouts should be smooth regardless in one of the kinder groups in the competition with Hungary and Iceland sandwiching the clash against the Portuguese. From there, anything is possible for this side but they can take encouragement that the thrilling talent at Koller’s disposal is one that can be built upon for the next decade.
After all, they wereable to defeat Russia twice in qualification, even without the injured Alaba. Every major tournament sees a new name emerge and in France, that could very well be the Austrians. Koller’s 4-2-3-1 formation relies on a high pressing game and he implores his charges to play with plenty of energy.
With that style of play and the talent in the squad, they’re sure to make an impact.
STRENGTHS
Koller’s side are on a thrill ride – the complete antithesis of stodgy teams of old. They came through qualifying with two games to spare thanks to an entertaining and attack-minde midfield. Martin Harnik, Zlatko Junuzovic and Marko Arnautovic’s clever interchanging is the hallmark of this team, alongside the incessant and world-class David Alaba. A well balanced, organized and tough outfit.
WEAKNESSES
If they’re lacking options and quality in one area, it would be up front. Veteran striker Marc Janko struck seven times during qualifying but he’s their sole goalscorer. It’s a big risk to rely on the 32-year-old to fire them through the tournament. While their first 11 is as strong and competitive as any, the squad lacks depth and any potential injuries would be crippling.
STAR MAN – DAVID ALABA
Still only 23, he is easily the most recognizable star in this impressive Austrian team. Bayern Munich have exploited his versatility as he’s emerged as not only one of the best left-backs in world football, but also as a solid centre-half, a dynamic midfielder and a creative No10. He’s used primarily in midfield for his country where his eye for a goal, tough tackling and energetic passing have made him a central figure.
VERDICT
They topped Group G in impressive, undefeated style during qualifying, capped by the 4-1 battering of Sweden. They have hopes of making an impact in France and this group offers them a chance to progress.
