Austria Vienna successfully defends the title at the 17th International Dr. Nimmrichter Memorial Tournament 2011!

In a rematch of last year’s final between FK Austria Vienna and Fortuna Sittard, the Violets once again emerged victorious in the penalty shootout.

With glorious football weather and perfect pitches, the young players, under the guidance of excellent referees, notably Bundesliga referee Harald Lechner, showcased high-quality games right from the start.

During the group stage, in Group A, FC Copenhagen emerged as the strongest team and tournament favorite with a series of victories. Behind them, there was an exciting three-way battle for the second semifinal spot, eventually secured by FK Dukla Banska Bystrica. SK Rapid Vienna settled for third place due to a poorer goal difference, relegating the Sports Academy of Doha to fourth.

In Group B, the Dutch representative Fortuna Sittard confirmed their favorite status and led the table from the start. Behind them, there was also a thrilling three-way battle for the second semifinal spot among FK Austria, Admira, and 1860 Munich. Thanks to a landslide victory in the final group stage match, Austria Vienna secured the desired semifinal spot based on a better goal difference, leaving behind Admira and 1860, who had the same number of points.

The regional teams fought bravely in matches against the professional teams, visibly motivated and joyful. The biggest surprise came from NSG Scheibbs, who secured a 1-0 victory against 1860 Munich on Saturday. The home team from Leonhofen held the first non-European representative in the tournament’s history, the Sports Academy of Doha, to a 0-0 draw, rewarding their effort.

On Sunday at noon, the traditional team parade took place, accompanied by the playing of national anthems by the brass band.

Then came the two semifinal matches. In the first duel, FC Copenhagen and FK Austria Vienna faced each other. In a technically high-quality match, the Danish champions couldn’t quite match their performances and fell 0-1 to a steadily growing Austria Vienna. The second semifinal brought an international duel of equals with Fortuna Sittard facing Banska Bystrica, where the Dutch prevailed in the penalty shootout after a goalless game, dispelling the notion that the Dutch cannot handle penalty shootouts.

After the placement matches, the eagerly awaited final followed. In front of a packed stands, the two teams marched onto the field to the sound of “Hells Bells” under the leadership of referee Harald Lechner. The two finalists showed a fast and balanced game, offering spectators everything a football match needs – except goals. As in the previous year, the tournament was decided by a penalty shootout for the championship. FK Austria took the lead from the first round, but the last Sittard shooter missed, giving the fifth Sittard shooter the chance to equalize. However, the young captain of the Dutch was denied by the Austria keeper. The Young Violets couldn’t contain their joy and celebrated Austria Vienna’s third tournament victory with enthusiasm.

During the grand award ceremony, the best individual players were announced.

Top scorer with 7 goals was Manuel Rehberger from LASK Linz.

The tournament’s best goalkeeper was FC Copenhagen’s Jonas Elkjfer.

The tournament’s best player was Fortuna Sittard midfielder Giel Piereij, who dazzled with his technical skills and understanding of the game.