Austria buried title hopes in the Vienna Derby against Rapid

Rapid won the 346th derby with goals from Dominik Fitz (80th/penalty) and Guido Burgstaller (32nd) and Ercan Kara (84th) with 2:1 against the "Violets", who are now six points behind Sturm Graz and three points behind WAC with two rounds to go. Rapid secured fifth place with four points ahead of Blau-Weiß Linz.

For the Hütteldorfers, it was the third victory over the Violets in the fourth season duel and the first since September 1, 2019, at the distribution circle. They also achieved a full competitive match victory after four defeats and a draw, simultaneously the first under interim coach Stefan Kulovits. Austria has suffered four defeats in the last six rounds.

The first excitement in front of around 14,622 fans - Rapid supporters were not allowed - took place in the visitors' penalty area. Mamadou Sangare brought down Maurice Malone, but referee Christopher Jäger's whistle remained silent (3rd). Three minutes later, Burgstaller appeared alone in front of Austria goalkeeper Samuel Sahin-Radlinger after a pass from Lukas Grgic, who parried the striker's direct shot.

Burgstaller and Kara scored each after Seidl corner

This was followed by a header from Malone over the goal (9th) and a longer lull before Rapid struck from a set piece. After a corner from Matthias Seidl and a header extension from Isak Jansson, Burgstaller pushed the ball over the line from close range. It was the first goal for the 36-year-old since his severe head injury in winter.

Austria tried desperately to equalize before the break and came very close twice. Matteo Perez Vinlöf hit the crossbar from close range (38th), and with a shot from Dominik Fitz, Rapid goalkeeper Niklas Hedl and the aluminum saved, the rebounding ball was placed by Malone next to the goal from close range (45.+2).

In the second half, an involuntary collision between Jansson and Jäger initially caused a stir. The referee was dazed afterward and had to be briefly treated but was able to continue (54th). As the match progressed, Austria's pressure grew, but compelling chances were scarce - until the 78th minute. Malone's shot hit Ange Ahoussou's arm, and Jäger decided on a penalty after reviewing the video footage - Fitz converted confidently.

Fitz penalty for "Violets" not enough

The match seemed to be tipping in Austria's favor. Malone was already past Hedl but couldn't get the ball into the goal from a tight angle (82nd). Shortly afterward, the stadium suddenly went quiet again, as Burgstaller's substitute Kara headed in again after a Seidl corner. The former ÖFB team player scored for the first time since his return to Rapid. Austria could not add more, and in the final matches against WAC (away) and Blau-Weiß Linz (at home), it is likely only about securing second place.

(APA/Red)

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