Rangnick Voices Disappointment Over Set-Piece Vulnerabilities, Yet Praises Austria’s Vibrant Display in Euro 2024 Departure

Austria’s journey at Euro 2024 came to a halt following a defeat to Turkiye in the last-16, yet Ralf Rangnick recognized his team’s contribution.

Ralf Rangnick highlighted a mix of disappointment and praise for Austria’s performance post-exit.

The team, which spearheaded Group D above France and the Netherlands, faltered defensively during crucial moments against Turkiye, bowing out with a 2-1 loss in Leipzig this Tuesday.

Merih Demiral was quick to make his mark, finding the net merely 57 seconds after kickoff following Arda Guler’s volatile set-piece. Later, the duo struck again, sealing Turkiye’s victory.

Despite this setback marking a consecutive knockout stage departure at the Euros, Rangnick wasn’t entirely discouraged by his team’s spirit.

“A stroke of luck was missing,” noted Austria’s coach, suggesting an extra-time may have tilted the scales in their favor as their opponents were tiring, whereas his squad had reserves of stamina.

“But goals were few, opportunities scarce, and our defense against set pieces was lackluster. With three adept headers missing the second goal’s defense, catching up was a tall order.”

The four matches Austria played were spirited and engaging, a stark contrast to some yawn-inducing games observed by Rangnick.

Austria’s aggressive play in Leipzig earned them an expected goals tally of 2.7 – a record for a team not advancing in recent Euros history, since France’s 3.1 against Switzerland in 2020’s round of 16.

Rangnick’s mention of the team’s vibrant display resonated, especially as a stellar save by Turkiye’s Mert Gunok from Christoph Baumgartner’s header in the final minute became a highlight.

“We’re overjoyed; it’s hard to express in words,” confided Turkiye’s savior between the sticks, Gunok, after steering his side to the quarterfinals for the first time in 16 years.

“A splendid victory, and heartfelt thanks to all our backers, and to those fervent supporters who kept the faith and cheered us onward,” Gunok added.

Demiral, the matching hero, celebrated the significance of representing Turkiye, acknowledging the electrifying support from the stands.

Looking forward, Vincenzo Montella eyes further success from the Turkish squad as they prepare for their upcoming clash against the Netherlands, following their solid 3-0 win against Romania.