Euro 2016: Iceland vs Austria - 5 players to watch out for
Considered minnows by most football fans and pundits at Euro 2016, Iceland are on a dream run in their first major tournament. They will face off against Austria in their final group match and both teams will look to register their first win of the tournament.
Austria began their Euro campaign with a disappointing game against Hungary losing 2-0 in the process, however, they were able to hold a stronger Portugal side to a goalless stalemate. Anything less than a win against Iceland will prove to be catastrophic for their hopes of qualifying the group stages.
Meanwhile, Iceland will be hoping to continue their momentum going into this match knowing that a win here will provide safe passage for the round of 16. They were unfortunate in conceding an own goal late into their match against current table toppers Hungary, and will look to record their first ever win in a major tournament.
We think that the following 5 players will play decisive roles for their respective nations in this match
1) David Alaba
Bayern’s 23-year-old left-back is one of the most versatile players in the world and is equally comfortable at playing as a centre-back or in midfield. He has been deployed at the number 10 position in the present Austrian squad but has not been able to make an impact in the previous 2 matches.
Austria will be looking to utilise Alaba’s remarkable flexibility, while Iceland will try to reduce his impact on the game. His exquisite passing and stunning set-pieces would prove to be decisive if Austria hopes to qualify from the group. If he is able to replicate his club form for his nation, the fans would be treated to a staggering performance from the young star.