Austria Talent Pötzl Called Up for World Cup Playoffs

Valentina Pötzl is in the Austrian women's national team squad for the first time!

The 17-year-old offensive player from Austria Wien has been called up by head coach Lars Söndergaard to replace Katharina Naschenweng (Bayern München), who is out with knee problems.

"Katharina Naschenweng's absence is a bitter blow for us, as her style of play brings a lot of dynamism to the team. At the same time, we are delighted to see Valentina Pötzl join the senior national team for the first time," the Dane was quoted as saying.

Pötzl is the sixth player from Austria Wien

He continued: "Her performances with the U-19 national team, and particularly for Austria Wien in the Champions League, have earned her this nomination. She plays with great freedom and brings a high work rate and dynamism to the pitch."

The Austria talent herself stated: "It's always special to play for your country, and being nominated for the senior national team for the first time is a great honour. I'm looking forward to this new challenge, getting to know all the players and the coaching staff, and hopefully celebrating a victory against Kosovo."

Pötzl's call-up completes the half-dozen 'Violets' in the national team. Alongside the 17-year-old, Katharina Schiechtl, Virginia Kirchberger-Prohaska, Verena Hanshaw, Louise Schöffel, and Jasmin Pal had already been nominated for the senior squad.

The first leg against Kosovo in the capital Pristina kicks off on Friday at 6 PM (LIVE ticker >>>).