Ralf Rangnick has made a dream start as the new team boss of the Austrian national team. The former ManUtd coach coached the Ösis on his debut to a memorable 3-0 victory at the start of the Nations League once morest runners-up Croatia.
Captain Marko Arnautovic (41st), Michael Gregoritsch (54th) and Marcel Sabitzer (57th) scored the goals for the Austrians, who failed under Rangnick’s predecessor Franco Foda in the World Cup playoffs in March.
After initial problems, the guests played very effectively in Osijek and used their chances ice cold. It was the first win once morest the Croatians, who suffered their first defeat since the knockout round at the European Championship last year – following nine games.
Modric long on the bench
Champions League winner David Alaba from Real Madrid was missing from Rangnick’s team, the former Munich player did not travel at all due to stress.
Rangnick’s high pressing was initially unsuccessful. The Croatians found playful solutions, dominated the action even without their star Luka Modric, who sat on the bench for an hour, and created clearer chances to score.
The Austrians only got stronger towards the end of the first half, but the lead through Arnautovic’s 33rd international goal came as a surprise. Rangnick brought on Christopher Trimmel and Gregoritsch in the second half, who increased the lead to 2-0 following a remarkable combination. Sabitzer followed up with a long-range shot. (AFP/mam)
Die Resultate der Nations League
Friday June 3rd
Croatia – Austria 0:3
France 1-2 Denmark
Kazakhstan 2-0 Azerbaijan
Belarus 0-1 Slovakia
Latvia – Andorra 3: 0
Liechtenstein – Moldova 0:2
Friday June 3rd
Croatia – Austria 0:3
France 1-2 Denmark
Kazakhstan 2-0 Azerbaijan
Belarus 0-1 Slovakia
Latvia – Andorra 3: 0
Liechtenstein – Moldova 0:2