Austria Wien Defender Dragovic Fit for Vienna Derby

"I was in treatment every day and feel good. I trained almost every day except at the beginning of the week and am ready for Sunday," said Dragovic on Friday at the press conference before the Vienna Derby at Rapid. After persistent adductor problems, the 34-year-old was substituted at halftime in the recent 3-2 victory against Ried.

Vienna Derby: Austria Vienna Confident Again After Winning Streak

Dragovic has set high goals for the first clash with the arch-rival this season. "I already said it at Red Star: The derby is for the fans. Of course, there are only three points, but we are on a good run now, having won three games. Against Ried, we were 0-2 down and practically at the central cemetery, but we rose again and won. That shows the team's morale," said Dragovic before the fourth and for now last derby without away fans after the riot derby on September 22, 2024. "We have to fight for 90 minutes for the colors, the club, and of course for the fans."

Both away games since Dragovic's return to the Austria jersey were narrowly lost. The current performances of Rapid must be acknowledged, said the 100-time ÖFB national player. "You have to give them a big compliment, they started very well like last year and play very refreshing football. But we are not going there with the white flag, we are not afraid. The coach has shown us all the strengths and weaknesses of Rapid."

Austria Vienna Takes the "Path of Small Steps"

Rapid has won three of the last four derbies. Austria coach Stephan Helm recapped that the sporting difference has become smaller over the course of the season - including what he described as an unfortunate defeat in the last encounter (1-2). "Now it's a new season. As far as I can judge, Rapid has invested a lot. We are taking the path of small steps," said Helm, mentioning, for example, "no more loan players" in the squad. "Every single player belongs to us."

The opponent has great individual quality on the field. "Players who are especially very secure with the ball and also have one-on-one qualities. But there are very clear tactical measures on how to counteract this and gain an advantage - and that's exactly what we will try," said Helm.

(APA/Red)

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