Vienna win friendly against Nürnberg II
Two weeks ahead of the spring opener against SKN St. Pölten, First Vienna FC played a friendly against the second team of 1. FC Nürnberg. At the ÖFB Campus, the Döbling side came out on top with a 3:2 win after a strong performance.
Fast start and early control
The blue and yellow team got off to a perfect start. In the fourth minute, Odagaki calmly converted his first big chance to put Vienna ahead 1-0. Head coach Hans Kleer’s side showed focus and enjoyment from the first whistle, controlling the game early on.
Nürnberg initially struggled to find rhythm, while Vienna continued to press forward. In the 13th minute, another highlight followed: Zimmermann was perfectly positioned after a cross from Rosenberger and made it 2-0.
Two unlucky goals before halftime
Vienna continued to dominate and defended well, but in the 28th minute, an unfortunate action led to a goal for Nürnberg: a clearance attempt from Rosenberger ended up in his own net. Shortly after, Vienna thought they had scored again as Odagaki finished beautifully in front of the keeper, but the goal was ruled offside.
Just before halftime, Nürnberg struck again. A cross from the side ended up fortuitously with a visiting player, who made it 2-2 going into the break.
Several changes at halftime
Coach Kleer rotated heavily during the break, and new players needed a little time to find their rhythm. The second half started calmer, with Vienna still controlling the game, though clear chances were initially scarce.
Chances begin to increase
Seo then made a first notable attempt, cutting into the box and shooting, but the Nürnberg goalkeeper made a strong save. Captain Luxbacher also had a good chance from a corner but was unlucky.
Emotional comeback
A special moment came shortly after: Markus Rusek made his return after a long injury layoff, getting valuable minutes on the pitch — a strong signal after his lengthy rehab.
Late decision from a set piece
In the final stages, Vienna increased the pressure. Several set-piece situations created danger, but the Nürnberg keeper was repeatedly on hand. Just when it seemed the match would end in a draw, the winner came in the 89th minute: a corner found substitute Szerencsi in the box, who acrobatically guided the ball over the line for the 3-2 victory.
An intense and insightful test for Vienna: excellent game control, good attacking moves, and strong morale until the final whistle. Another solid preparation ahead of the competitive season, which kicks off on 20 February with a top clash against SKN St. Pölten at Hohe Warte (tickets at www.1894.at/tickets).
First Vienna FC 1894 vs. 1. FC Nürnberg II 3:2 (2:2)
Goals: 1-0 Odagaki (4'), 2-0 Zimmermann (13'), 2-1 Rosenberger (own goal, 28'), 2-2 Wiezorrek (28'), 3-2 Szerencsi (89')
Vienna lineup – first half: Giuliani, Rosenberger, Gantschnig, Bauer, Nnamdi, Mergner, Prohart, Odagaki, Luxbacher, Zeidler, Zimmermann
