Viennese Derby Heralds Pivotal Week for Rapid Vienna

In recent weeks, Rapid Vienna has been able to look back on successful results. The team is represented in the Europa League at least until mid-December, reached the round of 16 in the ÖFB Cup, and in the Bundesliga, they are at the top, two points ahead of Sturm Graz in terms of points lost. Rapid Vienna coach Peter Stöger, however, sees this merely as a positive snapshot.

Rapid Vienna Coach Stöger Warns of Resurgent Wiener Austria

"We are doing very well, but it's only just beginning. Now it's about confirming and consistently continuing to work," explained the 59-year-old. Stöger did not want to attach too much importance to the high-profile triple pack before the international break. "It's clear, these are highlight games, but at the end of the day, that's all they are. Everything is counted at the end." Until then, it is important to continue to be passionate about the task. "We are where we are because the team is willing to put in a lot of effort." The fact that many matches have been won by only one goal difference "shows that nothing comes easy and we have to work hard for everything," emphasized Stöger.

This also applies to the derby, which Rapid approaches as the favorite on paper, after all, the Hütteldorf team is still unbeaten on the national level this season. But the arch-rival also recently showed strength with three consecutive wins. "Austria has come back from a difficult phase and will be in a positive mood," warned Stöger. The former ÖFB international was a champion with Rapid as a player and crowned himself three times as a player and twice as a coach with Austria. "This could be a very special game for me," said the Viennese, alluding to his past with both major Viennese clubs.

The Allianz Stadium will be full for the last derby without away fans. "We are blessed with our spectators, that we are supported like this," explained the coach, who can almost draw from a full squad. Of those professionals who recently counted as regulars, only Petter Dahl is missing, and according to Stöger, "three to four players are slightly injured. But my feeling tells me that everyone is working on themselves so that they are available on Sunday."

(APA/Red)

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