Austria Opposition Preview: What To Expect From Scotland's Crunch Tie Opponents

On Tuesday, Scotland go to Austria in considerably the Tartan Army's biggest game of the international break. The Scots have started fairly poorly with a loss to Denmark and an unconvincing win over minnows, Moldova however if they are to turn their fortunes around, now is the time to do it in a game that could be a case of if you lose, you're out.

Tactics

Going off their last game against Israel which resulted in a remarkable 5-2 loss Austria play in a 3-4-3 however that was their first time trying it and the result would suggest they may switch back to a 4 at the back system. If they do keep with it though there are many weaknesses that Scotland can exploit. Austria play a fairly attacking, high pressing style of football that against Israel often left them susceptible to counter-attacks.

As the picture above shows, the wingbacks pushed up leaving the Austrian defence in a 4v4 vs the Israeli attack- resulting in a goal. Especially with Robertson on the left-hand side, this could be an area to look at for Scotland assuming they stay with the same shape. No matter what formation Austria play, Scotland can expect a high-pressing style meaning Gilmour will be crucial to take the ball of the centre-backs and distribute

forwards.

Starman

The starman for Austria is undoubtedly, Marko Arnautovic. The former West Ham man is now at Bologna in Serie A and continues to be the powerful, clinical forward that rewarded him with a Premier League move. Arnautovic is 2 in 2 for Austria during this international break and 1 in 2 in Serie A. One of these goals was a fantastic shot from the edge of the box against Israel showing that Scotland can't soak up as many long shots as they did against Moldova.

If we are to look at a less glamorous but arguably more talented player in the Austrian line-up you have to look at Real Madrid summer signing, David Alaba. In his three games so far for Ancelotti, Alaba has maintained an 88% pass accuracy whilst completing 1.7 key passes per game showing he knows when to mix ball retention with that killer pass. Alaba was playing at LWB against Israel but has the capacity to play in midfield as well as centre-back. The versatile player certainly has the ability to frustrate Scotland and Clarke must improve his side in the attacking third if they want to take home three points.

Results

Austria have won two of their last five games, including the Euros where they put out a good account of themselves, particularly against Italy the eventual winners who they took to extra time. Since Euro 2020 the Austrians have won against Moldova and lost to Israel. During the Euros, they won half their games, showing this side comes with unpredictability and as a mixed bag similar in many ways similar

to Scotland.