Bundesliga: Salzburg asks Rapid to the summit

 The  hit in Salzburg could provide information about who currently has more tailwind in the title race. While Rapid was able to prepare for the game for a week, Salzburg completed the first leg of the last sixteen in the Europa League against Villarreal on Thursday, after which they had to digest a 2-0 home defeat.

“Villarreal played an incredibly good game, especially in the first half. Unfortunately, we don’t have the same quality as Villarreal, ”said Kühbauer.

Salzburg is burning to make amends

In addition to the doping-banned Sekou Koita and Mohamed Camara, the injured Bernardo is also missing in Salzburg, the use of Maximilian Wöber is questionable. Coach Jesse Marsch is looking forward to the quick opportunity to make amends after the defeat against Villarreal. “After a game like yesterday, where the disappointment is huge, it’s good to have a great game again,” said the American on Friday.

However, Rapid also pays off a lot. “It can help if you go there and get a good result. That can release new strength, ”said the 49-year-old. Kühbauer pointed out that the point is still halving and that there are always imponderables, for example due to injuries. “But it would help our heads if we get a good result.”

Two of the last three showdowns with the “cops” ended in debacle. In June it set a home 2: 7, in December Rapid lost in the cup round of 16 at the series champion with 2: 6. In between, a 1: 1 was achieved. In the last 18 Bundesliga duels, Rapid only managed one victory. Nevertheless, Kühbauer promised that one would definitely not hide behind. “If you just want to defend it will be difficult because you will find the hole at some point,” said the rapid coach.