Marrakech – Austria, led by the inspirational Ralf Rangnick, face a stern test against a passionate Turkey side in a captivating Euro 2024 round of 16 clash tonight at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig. Kick-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. Moroccan time.
Austria coach Ralf Rangnick believes destiny has led his side to a Euro 2024 round of 16 showdown with Turkey in Leipzig, a city where he spent nearly a decade of his career.
The former Manchester United interim boss has transformed Austria’s fortunes since taking charge two years ago.
They topped Group D ahead of France and the Netherlands to reach the knockout stages for the first time.
Now, Rangnick’s men have their sights set on a historic quarter-final berth, but must first navigate past a tricky Turkey side at the Red Bull Arena, a stadium he knows all too well from his time as RB Leipzig’s sporting director and manager.
“I believe that if somebody would have forecast in the group phase that we basically proceed into the round of 16 and play in Leipzig then I would have said, ‘well, you are very optimistic’,” Rangnick admitted. “But it’s amazing that we’ve made it this far, and not a coincidence that we play in this stadium tomorrow.”
Austria will feel at home with RB Leipzig stars Christoph Baumgartner and Nicolas Seiwald in their ranks. “It’s something special when you walk inside the stadium and just feel at home,” said Baum Gartner. “I think it’s just an advantage to be able to play in Leipzig here.”
Turkey, under the guidance of coach Vincenzo Montella, will need to be at their best against what the Italian described as a “complete team” who are “perhaps the best team as a unit”.
The Crescent-Stars have had a fiery tournament so far, collecting 11 yellow cards in their last game against the Czech Republic.
Rangnick is aware of the emotional challenge Turkey will bring, but insists his side must keep their composure. “Of course, we know that Turkey is a team that will also try to bring emotion into the game,” he said.
“We also need the highest possible energy level. To put it a bit vividly, we also need hot hearts on the pitch. But we still need a cool head in every situation.”
Austria will be without suspended defender Kevin Wimmer, while Gernot Trauner is a doubt with a thigh injury.
Turkey captain Hakan Calhanoglu and center-back Samet Akaydin are also banned, but Abdulkerim Bardakci returns from suspension.
The match will be broadcast live on BBC Radio 5 Live, with text updates on the BBC Sport website. ITV1 and beIN Sports will also show the game live.
