The discussions about team boss Franco Foda have become louder and louder in recent months. After the successful European Championship finals, the direct qualification for the World Cup in Qatar was clearly missed. After the 2: 5 and 0: 1 against Scotland in September “Foda out” shouts became louder and louder. After the last two victories against Israel (4: 2) and against the Republic of Moldova (4: 1), Foda got himself a deadline. He will also sit on the bench in the March play-offs. The ÖFB President Gerhard Milletich confirmed: In general, clarity in football is always important, ”said the ÖFB President and added:“ Because it’s not just about the coach, but also about the inner workings of a team. ” For this, rest is always good.
Foda is happy about the confirmation, especially since it was not agreed in advance that the German will remain in office after two victories at the end of the World Cup qualification. “I like being the national coach, I really enjoy my work,” explained O. “I really, really enjoy working with the players, we have a good team. One or the other has often interpreted it differently. “
Foda has been in office since November 2017. His contract runs until the play-off and would be extended to after the tournament in Qatar at the end of 2022 if he participates in the World Cup. In response to a statement from the team that he wanted to continue with him, he did not want the final international double in Klagenfurt with wins against Israel (4: 2) and Moldova to be reduced. “Why should she play for or against a coach? Ultimately, it’s about the ÖFB. We all want to be successful. “
In the play-off you have to go to the semifinals on 24./25. March first compete away from home. The draw will take place on November 26th in Zurich. Calibers like European champions Italy or Portugal are threatened. “We know that tough opponents are waiting for us there, no question about it,” said O. Hopefully in March – in contrast to autumn – all ÖFB players will be in top shape and in rhythm. “Then we are absolutely in a position to qualify for the World Cup.” However, there will be no more internationals until then. As a result, Foda has told its players that they “need to stay hungry.”
He himself will soon work through the year with the coaching team and athletic management, reflecting the less than satisfactory World Cup qualifications. “Of course we had problems. We had a lot of injured players and had to keep repositioning, improvising and looking for new ways, ”said the team O. “In spite of everything, it would have been possible to at least take second place. We have to review once again why that was not the case. “
