Who will Rangnick start against Spain?

Which ÖFB players will be in the starting eleven for the World Cup Round of 16 match against Spain?

Source text: © LAOLA1

von Harald Prantl

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How can this Spanish team be countered? How can the ÖFB team pull off a sensation in the World Cup Round of 16 against the reigning European champions?

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Ralf Rangnick and his coaching staff have been pondering this question for days.

Uruguay as a role model

Rangnick reveals that they "closely analyzed" Spain's narrow 1-0 victory against Uruguay in particular.

"In that game, Spain didn't create many clear goal-scoring opportunities. Uruguay played very courageously, physically, and aggressively," says the ÖFB team manager.

Return to pressing DNA

Other statements from ÖFB circles also suggest that the team wants to display its pressing DNA again. They discussed in recent meetings how to return to this approach.

Accordingly, the lineup is also to be expected. Similar to the match against Argentina, an extremely strong and ball-secure opponent awaits, one who feels comfortable in possession.

Like against Argentina?

Although no points were gained against Lionel Messi and Co. in the end, everyone in the ÖFB team was largely satisfied with the performance.

There is little to suggest that the lineup chosen in Dallas against the reigning world champions will not be used again. With one or two question marks.

Laimer against Yamal?

Alexander Schlager is in goal. The central defense is formed by David Alaba with Kevin Danso, although the latter could be replaced by Philipp Lienhart.

test — Laimer spielt wohl wieder Außenverteidiger
Foto: ©IMAGO / STEINSIEK.CH

Stefan Posch on the right and Konrad Laimer on the left are the full-backs. Phillipp Mwene is out due to injury, so it's logical to rely on Laimer against Lamine Yamal.

Who triggers the pressing?

In central midfield, Nicolas Seiwald and Xaver Schlager are expected to win balls. The attacking midfield trio from left to right consists of Marcel Sabitzer, Paul Wanner, and Romano Schmid.

Because Laimer is needed in the back four, and with Wanner in the central attacking midfield, there is unlikely to be a player with experience as a pressing trigger, Michael Gregoritsch is likely the first choice up front.

The Germany-based player has greater qualities in playing against the ball than his competitors Sasa Kalajdzic and Marko Arnautovic.