D'angelo and bremen's 'messi with gloves' aim to shock germany in wcq
Chiara D’Angelo, a key figure for Austria, is quietly building momentum ahead of a crucial World Cup qualifier against Germany – and she’s bringing a formidable support system with her.
Tunnel vision and tactical focus: d’angelo’s path to nuremberg
The Austrian squad is sharpening its focus in Vienna, benefiting from a new state-of-the-art training campus. But for D’Angelo, the preparation extends beyond the field; her connection with teammates like Mariella El Sherif, nicknamed ‘Messi with Gloves’ – a testament to her creative playmaking – fuels her confidence. This shared history, dating back to the U-19 and U-20 European and World Championship campaigns, provides a bedrock of familiarity and mutual respect.
“We can train excellently here, get good food, have no long journeys, and also have time to recover,” D’Angelo stated, highlighting the advantages of the Austrian Football Federation’s (ÖFB) new facility in Seestadt Aspern. The emphasis isn’t just on physical conditioning; it’s about mental resilience, particularly as Germany, a perennial powerhouse, looms large.
Beyond the pitch: bremen’s hidden strength
D’Angelo’s ties to Bremen extend beyond her teammate, El Sherif. She’s part of a dynamic quartet – alongside Gutmann and a newly-nominated Mühlhaus – that has consistently delivered defensive solidity. Werder Bremen’s impressive record reflects the collective effort and tactical awareness within the squad.
Nurnberg and a tactical edge
Despite the underdogs label, D’Angelo isn’t intimidated. She acknowledges the challenge of facing Germany, particularly recalling her experience as captain during Austria’s U-20 World Cup campaign in Colombia. “It’s cool that everything is working out so well,” she reflected, referencing Bremen’s consistent performance. “We’re always well-prepared and compact in the games.”
A rivalry revisited
The Nordderby against Hamburg, where D’Angelo witnessed a stunning 4-2 victory after trailing 0-2, and Werder’s 2-0 triumph over HSV before a crowd of 37,000, showcased her tactical acumen. Her “tunnel vision,” as she described it, during those crucial moments underscores her ability to compartmentalize and execute under pressure. It’s a quality she’ll need to leverage against Germany, a nation familiar with the intensity of these high-stakes encounters.
Looking ahead: a chance to shine
Despite facing a formidable opponent, D’Angelo remains steadfast in her belief, stating, “We are the underdogs, and I like that.” The Austria-Germany qualifier promises to be a captivating clash, with D’Angelo and her Bremen compatriots poised to deliver a surprise.