Like the players and coaches, Klaus Mitterdorfer is also affected by the elimination in the European Championship round of 16 against Turkey. However, the President of the Austrian Football Association (ÖFB) highlighted the positive aspects of Austria’s European Championship performances after the 1:2 defeat in Leipzig on Tuesday. “The team is disappointed, the coach is disappointed, probably the whole of football Austria is disappointed. I am disappointed too, but you have to say that the team can be proud of the tournament,” emphasised the Carinthian.
GEPA/Thomas Fuernholzer
Mitterdorfer said that they had brought joy to many people in Austria. “That is something that you can take away from this final round. I have the feeling that many people are happy with the team, what we have achieved and how we presented ourselves.” In contrast to the 6:1 win in the test against Turkey in March, they did not take advantage of their opportunities this time, explained Mitterdorfer. “For us, a dream has already been shattered. We would have loved to take the next steps with the fans.”
Focus on Nations League
Now it is important to set new goals. “That is to get promoted to the highest league in the Nations League, a successful World Cup qualification and then to play a good World Cup,” said the association head. The Nations League group phase with opponents Norway, Slovenia and Kazakhstan will take place in the autumn, and the World Cup qualification starts in 2025.
According to Mitterdorfer, it should not be a failure due to the motivation of team manager Ralf Rangnick. “He is very disappointed now, but I do believe that he can get over it relatively quickly and inspire the players to achieve new goals,” said the 58-year-old.
