The Josko Arena in Ried continues to be good ground for Austria’s U21 national soccer team. Yesterday the team kept the EM mini-chance alive with the 2:1 (1:1) victory over Norway. Austria’s team is currently in second place, but has played two more games than the competitors behind it. Also in the direct duel against the Norwegians – which could count in the end if there is a tie – they are behind after the 1:3 from the first leg.
In front of 1000 spectators, Austria’s team at least partially managed to take revenge for the 1: 3 in the first leg. The ÖFB selection attacked the opponent early. The 1-0 through Romano Schmid (11th) was more than deserved. Practically out of nowhere, the guests equalized through Holm before the break (42′). But the Austrians were not impressed by that either. ÖFB team boss Werner Gregoritsch should have found the right words in the cabin. Immediately after the restart, Junior Adamu scored to make it 2-1 (48th).
Patrick Wimmer on Wolfsburg?
The assistant for both Austrian goals was Patrick Wimmer. According to “kicker” information, the offensive man is about to move from Arminia Bielefeld to VfL Wolfsburg, where his compatriots Pavao Pervan and Xaver Schlager are involved. The 20-year-old played his way into the display with ten goals this season. The Tullner has an exit clause with a fixed transfer fee in his contract. If Bielefeld remains in the first German Bundesliga, seven million will be due. In the case of relegation, it’s five million.
Difficult starting position
With this victory, Austria took second place from Norway. This would be enough for participation in the play-off. However, the Norwegians still have the far better cards in their hands, one point behind Austria. While Austria only has the tough game against Finland left and is doomed to win, the Scandinavians still have three games left against Croatia, Finland and Azerbaijan.
After yesterday’s 2-3 defeat by leaders Croatia against Finland, Austria is only three points behind in first place (with one game more). However, after yesterday’s victory, the Finns are still in the running for second place.
Source: Nachrichten
