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Julian Baumgartlinger introduced himself confidently ahead of the Austrian national soccer team’s Nations League game on Wednesday in Ploiesti against Romania. The ÖFB captain warned of the quality of the opponent, but was also optimistic that a 2: 3 rematch at home in September could lead to the third consecutive international victory.
“Given the strength we showed against Northern Ireland and knowing that we were the best team against Romania in Klagenfurt, we can have respect, but we don’t have to be afraid.”explained the Leverkusen professional. You got into the first duel with the Romanians “Decent game” done, Baumgartlinger said. “But we were too careless with the goals.”
More recently, the ÖFB selection was firmly presented in the behavior of the defense for long periods and thus could look forward to successes against Greece and Northern Ireland. By contrast, the Romanians suffered bitter defeats in the European Championship semi-final play-off against Iceland and in the Nations League against Norway. “Of course it is much better to start a match with two wins than with two losses”Baumgartlinger said.
The midfielder suspected that the European Championship play-off tie in particular should have hit the Romanians hard. “That was definitely a great goal for them. It’s good for us because we don’t have a real away game at the European Championship in Bucharest. “ The Romanians would have been Austria’s rivals in the EURO group if they had prevailed in the play-off matches. Now the winner of Georgia against North Macedonia awaits Franco Foda’s troops.
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For now, however, the focus remains on the Nations League, which the ÖFB team wants to finish in first place. In this sense, a draw in Romania would be a useful basis, because the Austrians could secure promotion to League A with two wins in the last November home games against Northern Ireland and Norway. “We do not count and we want to play for the victory”Baumgartlinger said, but he also restricted that “Not without head” can enter the game: “We don’t need to take unnecessary risks.”
In this context, experience is required, which David Alaba has in addition to the captain of the ÖFB. The Bayern professional showed his qualities as a left defender against Northern Ireland. “He was very positive and active, and very vocal from minute one. You can tell how it pushes on the left side, and we don’t need to talk about its quality anyway. “Baumgartlinger explained.
The Salzburger’s qualities were apparently less appreciated recently at Leverkusen: Baumgartlinger only made three short appearances this season. “It was a little less time than I expected. That is why it is important to use exactly these internationals “the 32-year-old said. “But I feel fit and my routine helps me stay calm. “
Baumgartlinger is also reassured by the public’s cautious reactions to the two recent victories. “I did not perceive any criticism, but I also took care of other things”said the captain, emphasizing: “We can already evaluate it correctly. The first half against Greece was pompous, the second best. The first half was excellent against Northern Ireland and the second half was even. We are self-critical, but it is still important to acknowledge victories because they cannot be taken for granted. “
Changes from “one to two”: ÖFB team wants third suite win in Romania
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Featured Image: GEPA
