FIFA 13: 8 Historically Important Teams You Should Manage

4. Austria

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJE2gE8BJNY The famous Wunderteam once dominated international football - they had an unbeaten streak between 1931 and 1932 that lasted 14 matches. Managed by the legendary Hugo Meisl, the team employed a style based on the quick passing game introduced by Jimmy Hogan. The star player was Matthias Sindelar; a small but creative dribbler. Der Papierene captained the team as they conquered Europe. They became famous for thrashing Germany 6-0 and 5-0, Switzerland 6-0 and Hungary 8-2. Their victory in the 1932 Central European International Cup (the precursor to the Euros) made them favourites for the World Cup in 1934 but they were eliminated in the semi-finals by Italy €“ who hosted and eventually won the competition. The 1934 World Cup is criticised due to the influence of Mussolini. The dictator understood the popularity of sports and knew that if Italy won the public would be pleased. The goal that Italy scored only went in after the Austrian keeper was pushed over the line. The referee clearly favoured the home team and due to poor weather conditions the Wunderteam were not able to play their usually style. The death of Meisl in 1937 marked the end of the Wunderteam. They qualified for the €™38 competition but withdrew after Austria was annexed by Nazi Germany. Sindelar refused to play for Germany and in 1939 he was found dead in his apartment due to supposed carbon monoxide poisoning. The circumstances are still debated today. So, why not manage Austria? Take them to the World Cup and hopefully, without the influences of the Nazis or Mussolini, you could actually win the competition.
Contributor
Contributor

Write about football and games. Support Liverpool. Consistently disappointed.