Austria Salzburg and the return to the “Schnitzelsemmel affair”

In the spring of 2006, emotions ran high when Austria Salzburg fans were left without a club after the split from FC Red Bull Salzburg. An offer from PSV/SW Salzburg brought a glimmer of hope: the spin-off of the football section would enable Austria to make a fresh start.

“Schnitzelsemmel affair” in the back of Austria Salzburg’s mind

But behind the scenes, the conflict over allegedly “illegally” sold schnitzel sandwiches escalated during a game and led to the end of the collaboration – the “schnitzel sandwich affair” was born.

Since the Violets felt that the PSV officials were not offering any decent food, they took the initiative and offered schnitzel sandwiches for sale. “Of course, that is still in the back of my mind. It was the time when history began anew and we played at the PSV ground for half a year in the spring of 2006. It is something special for us, but I am not going to be nostalgic now,” Austria chairman David Rettenegger explained to SALZBURG24.

The purple board member is staying in Oslo until Tuesday evening and was there for the 1:2 defeat of the Austrians against Norway. However, he will be back in Salzburg in time for the round of 16 duel of “his” club. “UFC Croatia is a cool club and a great project. I’ve already watched two games,” reveals Rettenegger.

West League champion returns to PSV pitch

The year 2006 brought a decisive turning point. Despite being relegated to the second division (last level of play), the Violets took their fate into their own hands and managed to get promoted again. Today, Austria Salzburg is the reigning champion of the Western League and is returning to the scene of the event with renewed vigor. Between 500 and 800 fans are expected at PSV-Platz, the home of UFC Croatia. The round of 16 match has been officially registered with the relevant authorities and is permitted to accommodate 1,000 spectators.

“Game of the century” for UFC Croatia

“It’s a city derby, so to speak. In addition to the title in the West League, we also want to win the cup, so only a win counts. I’m expecting a great atmosphere, where there will certainly be some emotions involved,” said Austria coach Christian Schaider. UFC Croatia, founded in 2023 and playing in the 2nd class North B, sees the duel as the “game of the century,” as President Bozo Tadic announced.

“For us, this bonus game is of course a highlight. Everyone is highly motivated and around 30 volunteers are actively involved in the preparations for building a fence. In sporting terms, we have nothing to lose. We want to keep a clean sheet for as long as possible and annoy Austria,” emphasised Tadic, who watched the opponent in the West League derby against Kuchl (3-0 victory for the Violets).

Croatians as sensational team in the cup

Due to the rain, the Croatia boss is expecting difficult pitch conditions: “The training pitch on which we will play because of the floodlights is certainly not a carpet like in Kuchl. The overwhelming favorite could have a hard time there.” The three sensational victories against Anthering, Bergheim and HSV Wals have shown that the underdog can also knock much stronger opponents out of the cup. But the second-class club is not playing for a second with the idea of ​​tripping up the giants. “Our goal is to sell ourselves dearly. If we manage to score a goal, we will of course be very happy,” said Tadic.

The encounter between the two teams not only promises sporting excitement, but is also of historical importance for both clubs.

West League team St. Johann is already in the quarter-finals, having defeated Eben 3-0 in the Pongau derby.

All duels in the Landescup round of 16

• UFC Just – St. John 0:3 (0:0)

Tuesday

• Wals-Grünau – Bischofshofen (HSV-Platz, 5.30 p.m.)
• Seekirchen – Bramberg (6 p.m.)
• Straßwalchen – ASV (7.15 p.m.)
• Saalfelden – Kuchl (7.30 p.m.)
• Schwarzach – Golling (7.30 p.m. each)

Wednesday

• Adnet – Siezenheim (7 p.m.)
• Croatia Salzburg – Austria Salzburg (7pm)

(Source: SALZBURG24)