Royal FC Blau-Weiß Linz! On Wednesday, FC Salzburg defeated Feyenoord Rotterdam 3-1 in the Champions League – but this Sunday there was nothing to gain from FC Blau-Weiß Linz. Once again: The Blue-Whites hadn’t lost a game against the Bulls in the previous season (one win, one draw), and yesterday coach Gerald Scheiblehner’s team pulled off another huge surprise. “To achieve such a performance after six games without a win is a sign that the team always believes in itself. We won 2-0 against a Champions League participant, so there’s nothing to criticize. We can be proud of an incredibly great performance,” said BW coach Scheiblehner.
On the pitch it was by no means clear which team was represented in the European premier league and which club was only in its second year in the Bundesliga: The home team immediately took command against the long-time league dominators: the blue and white team had already taken control in the eighth minute. The fans were screaming for goal: Simon Seidl had let through a cross from Thomas Goiginger, Ronivaldo shot over the goal completely free-standing. His team continued to push and had another good opportunity to score thanks to a Goiginger half-volley (16′).
Shortly before the break, the guests were lucky again: Alexander Schmidt was a nuisance against Lucas Gourna-Douath and received an elbow in the face from the Salzburg midfielder in a duel. But referee Markus Hameter only decided on a yellow card.
Ronivaldos Blitz-Tor
Anyone who would have thought that Salzburg would show a different face after the break was disappointed. Blau-Weiß managing director Christoph Peschek had just sat down in his chair when he jumped up cheering again. 28 seconds after the restart, Ronivaldo stole the ball from the Bulls after his own kick-off and remained ice cold in front of Salzburg goalie Alexander Schlager – 1-0.
Video: Ronivaldo im Interview:
Unleashed Linz gave the million-strong team no chance: Goiginger (50th), Seidl with a shot into the side netting (51st) and Simon Pirkl from a distance (54th) had further good opportunities. And Salzburg? Mamady Diambou’s finish in the 55th minute was the first really dangerous offensive situation – and also the last.
The intense game for which the team from the city of Mozart is actually known was shown today by the locals: The Scheiblehner team literally tied down the opponent – and was rewarded in the 58th minute: Alexander Brield took courage from 18 meters and scored with the help of Schlager and the bar to make it 2-0. Of all people, the 22-year-old, who was trained at the Bulls Academy and made his comeback in the blue and white starting line-up yesterday after a pubic bone injury: “The last few weeks have been tough. I am happy about every goal, but scoring against Salzburg is of course even better for me.”
Video: Alexander Briedl im Interview:
A victory that was more than deserved – and could have been even higher due to missed chances by Goiginger (73rd), Ronivaldo (83rd) and Fabio Strauss (84th). Significantly: Blue and White goalie Radek Vitek didn’t have a single ball to parry during the 94 minutes of play.
With the three points, Linz moved back over the line in sixth place. Blue and White striker Alexander Schmidt: “With these three points we can look up again.”
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**Interview with FC Blau-Weiß Linz Coach Gerald Scheiblehner after their Surprise Victory Against FC Salzburg**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Coach Scheiblehner. What an incredible performance from your team against FC Salzburg! How does it feel to secure such a decisive victory after a streak without wins?
**Gerald Scheiblehner:** Thank you for having me. It feels fantastic! This victory is a testament to the team’s resilience and belief in themselves. Winning 2-0 against a Champions League participant after six games without a win is remarkable. We showed that we can compete at this level, and I’m incredibly proud of the players.
**Editor:** You mentioned the importance of belief in your squad. What do you think contributed to the team’s ability to maintain this belief despite recent struggles?
**Gerald Scheiblehner:** We have a strong bond in this team. Even during tough times, the players supported each other and stayed focused on our goals. We’ve been working hard in training, and the victory over Salzburg shows that our efforts are paying off. It’s about pushing through and not losing faith in what we can achieve together.
**Editor:** The match started with some intense action, and Ronivaldo’s quick goal in the second half really set the tone. What were your thoughts on that moment?
**Gerald Scheiblehner:** It was a crucial moment for us. Scoring so quickly after the restart energized the players and the fans. Ronivaldo was phenomenal throughout the match, and that goal really showcased our determination. It sent a clear message that we were here to compete.
**Editor:** You were also able to restrict Salzburg’s chances effectively. How important was your team’s defensive performance in securing this win?
**Gerald Scheiblehner:** It was vital. Our defensive organization was solid, and we were disciplined all match long. Radek Vitek didn’t have to make a single save, which highlights how well the entire team worked together. Everyone contributed to both the attack and defense, showing great teamwork.
**Editor:** With this win, your team has moved back into sixth place. What do you hope this result will do for your squad moving forward in the season?
**Gerald Scheiblehner:** This victory gives us a huge boost in confidence as we move forward. We need to build on this momentum and stay focused. Every match is an opportunity to improve and climb the standings, and with performances like this, I believe we can achieve great things this season.
**Editor:** Thank you, Coach Scheiblehner, for your insights. Best of luck for the rest of the season!
**Gerald Scheiblehner:** Thank you! We appreciate the support!
