The Austrian Bundesliga clash between Hartberg and Austria Vienna is set to be an exciting encounter.
As the second leg of the European playoff approaches, both teams are eager to secure their place in the Conference League. Here's a comprehensive preview including team form, news, and predictions.
Match Preview
Hartberg's Current Form
Hartberg has had a challenging end to their regular season. Despite finishing in the top six of the Austrian Bundesliga, they have struggled recently, winning just one of their last four matches.
Their recent 2-1 defeat in the first leg against Austria Vienna has put them in a difficult position. However, a late goal from Maximilian Entrup has kept their hopes alive.
Austria Vienna's Current Form
Austria Vienna, on the other hand, has found form at the perfect time.
After a disappointing 4-0 loss to Wolfsberger in mid-May, the team made a managerial change, bringing in Christian Wegleitner.
Since then, they have won three consecutive league matches. In the first leg against Hartberg, they secured a crucial 2-1 victory, thanks to goals from James Holland and Dominik Fitz.
Team News
Hartberg
Hartberg will likely make some changes to their starting lineup.
Maximilian Fillafer, who was replaced at halftime in the first leg, is expected to drop out, with goalscorer Maximilian Entrup set to start.
Ruben Providence, who provided the assist for Hartberg's goal, might also be promoted to the starting XI.
The defence is expected to remain unchanged with Ibane Bowat and Paul Komposch as the central pairing.
Austria Vienna
Austria Vienna faces several injury concerns.
Florian Wustinger remains sidelined with a cruciate ligament injury, while Lucas Galvao and Marko Raguz are also out.
Fisnik Asllani, who played only 45 minutes in the first leg, might be replaced by Moritz Wels.
Despite these challenges, Austria Vienna has shown resilience and depth in their squad.
Predictions
Given their recent form and the managerial boost, Austria Vienna appears to have the upper hand.
Hartberg, while playing on home soil, has been inconsistent and might struggle to overturn the deficit.
Our Prediction: Hartberg 1-2 Austria Vienna (Austria Vienna win 4-2 on aggregate)
Hartberg 
Austria Wien 
