"Ronaldo made people think he’s a bad manager" - Fans laud Ralf Rangnick as Austria top Euro 2024 Group D ahead of France and Netherlands
Austria emerged as the winners of Group D ahead of France and the Netherlands at Euro 2024, and fans lauded head coach Ralf Rangnick. Das Team finished with six points in three games, one ahead of France and two more than Oranje.
In a nerve-wracking encounter, the Austrians beat the Dutch 3-2 in the last group fixture to seal their place in the Round of 16 on Tuesday, June 25. An own goal from Donyell Malen put them in front after only six minutes. Cody Gakpo pulled Netherlands level shortly into the second half before Romano Schmid restored their advantage just moments before the hour mark.
Memphis Depay then made it 2-2 in the 75th minute as the Dutch weren't giving up easily. However, in yet more twist in the tale, Marcel Sabitzer netted the winner for Austria in the 80th minute.
With France drawing to Poland in the other game, Austria emerged as group winners against all the odds. Manager Rangnick, who took charge of the side in April 2022, garnered plaudits for the incredible job he's done with the team.
Fans took to X to express their thoughts on the manager.
"Ronaldo fans won’t like this" wrote halfcast.
"AUSTRIA THE UNDERDOG 🙌[Austrian flag emoji]," wrote Dorde.
Cristiano Ronaldo got a mention for his remarks against the former Manchester United interim manager back in 2022.
Austria will face the runners-up of Group F in the Round of 16 of Euro 2024.
Austria proved their mettle, finishing above France and the Netherlands
When the draw for Group D was made, no one might have given Austria a chance, considering they were up against heavyweights France and the Netherlands. On paper, even Poland seemed stronger than them.
Das Team began their campaign on a losing note as well despite putting in a decent performance as Les Bleus won 1-0. But what followed next has been truly remarkable, as Ralf Rangnick's side beat both Poland and Netherlands to emerge as Group D winners. Didier Deschamps' also dropped points in their last group fixture.
In both their wins so far, Austria demonstrated frightening attacking intent. They carved out chances clinically while showing excellent grit and determination to fight on till the end. These traits could take them far into the competition.