Before the World Cup in Zurich, Roger Bader faces an exciting decision – who will guard the goal for the Austrian national team? However, it is clear to the team boss: there is no longer a classic number one.
Tolvanen and Kickert as a duo
With Atte Tolvanen and David Kickert, Austria has a strong goalkeeper duo that Bader describes as a “one-man team”. Both keepers play on an equal level – there is no clear hierarchy. Kickert, in particular, recently made a name for himself with strong performances: the Viennese played a key role in reaching the quarter-finals of the 2025 World Cup and also shone in the league with strong statistics.
Vorauer as an additional option
Behind the duo there is another strong alternative in Florian Vorauer. The KAC goalie should also be given his assignments during the tournament, depending on the game plan and situation, as Bader clarified to the “Kronen Zeitung”.
Opening games are key
The first World Cup games could already point the way. Within a short period of time, Austria will face Great Britain and Hungary – games in which the goalkeeper question is likely to play a decisive role. For Bader, one thing is certain: Austria relies on breadth instead of hierarchy in goal – and on several strong options instead of a classic number one.
Image: ÖEHV-Manfred Szieber
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