The Austrian team reversed all predictions at this year’s EURO.

From an underrated team, Marcel Sabitzer and his teammates dramatically defeated the Netherlands 3-2, miraculously taking the top spot in Group D.

At the same time, Poland held France 1-1. This result helps Austria finish the EURO group stage with the top position in Group D, ahead of both France and the Netherlands. Austria’s opponents in the round of 16 will be Türkiye, Czech Republic or Georgia. This is a dream result compared to having to encounter a stronger opponent if ranked 2nd or 3rd in Group D.

The person who helped Austria create this feat was none other than Ralf Rangnick. With him, Austria finished the group stage in the leading position for the first time in history at a EURO.

Austria also made history when it won two consecutive victories at major tournaments (EURO/World Cup) for the first time in 42 years. They defeated the Netherlands for the first time after 7 losing matches since 1990.

According to Statman Dave, Austria is an effective pressing team with a modern style. Under Rangnick, Austria scored only less than Germany in the EURO group stage up to this point (not including Groups E and F), and was only less than Spain in the number of successful tackles in 1/3 of the opponent’s field.

Austria’s cautious football, relying on quick counter-attacks under Franco Foda, is a thing of the past. Rangnick blew a positive breeze into the Austrian team by imposing a proactive style of play and this made the players very excited.

When he was leading Man Utd, Rangnick was criticized as an incompetent coach. Cristiano Ronaldo also said he doesn’t know how to coach. But clearly his successes with Austria, or previously with RB Salzburg and RB Leipzig, show that he really has an extensive football knowledge base.

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