This is also to be expected from the paper form. St. Pölten is in 14th place in the UEFA ranking, while the Greek champions are only 72nd. “It is the case that we are a bit better in terms of quality,” SKN trainer Brancao also looked forward optimistically. Nevertheless, a very difficult game can be expected. “They have that mentality that they fight until they can’t anymore,” said the Brazilian.
On Wednesday, your team got an idea of their opponents from the stands in the semi-final between PAOK and Racing Union, in which the Luxembourgers lost 6-1. The Swedish striker Emelie Helmvall was particularly noticeable, as she scored four goals to decide the game before the break. “She’s not that fast, but she knows exactly where the goal is. And she is extremely intelligent and has good pressing situations,” analyzed Brancao.
GEPA/Manuel Binder SKN coach Brancao doesn’t expect an easy game
Three wins in three games this season
But her team also poses a lot of goal threat. After the mandatory win in the first round of the ÖFB Cup against the third division team FSG Stetteldorf/Großweikersdorf (9:0), victories were also achieved in the Bundesliga against Austria Wien (1:0) and against Vienna (5:1). Against PAOK they want to show “from the first minute” that they definitely want to win.
Maria Mikolajowa, who had to leave the league recently due to injury, will probably not make any contribution. Claudia Wenger will not be in the starting line-up, the ÖFB team player has only been back in full team training this week. No risk should be taken with regard to the further course of the season.
Always focus on the next match
The promotion should be successful regardless. “I know there’s a little bit of pressure,” Brancao said. However, this only affects the current round. “We don’t have the pressure that we absolutely have to reach the group stage again.” For this to happen, a return leg in the second qualifying round would also have to be organized positively.
“It is of course our wish to get into the group phase. We’ve done it before, why not again?” said Captain Jennifer Klein. For now, however, it is important to look from game to game. “And it’s always difficult in just one game,” warned the ÖFB team player.
The home advantage should be used, even if the stands are anything but full. “It is not beneficial that we also have the cathedral square opening in St. Pölten. “We want to exceed the 1,000 mark,” said club president Wilfried Schmaus. The winner’s bonus is 15,000 euros, and the loser gets 10,000 euros.
