A defence that concedes ...

A defence that concedes to Cameroon is unlikely to withstand the test of facing Salas and Zamorano in St.Etienne this afternoon.

Austria must withstand an attacking duo that were subdued by Italy for much of their game last week but who have the speed and power to overcome Austria at their strongest point. The Austrian side were fortunate to retrieve anything from their game against an African side who were able to exploit weaknesses in defence and midfield of an Austrian side who were regularly stretched in the second half by some powerful Cameroon running.

Chile will rely on a passing game today and the undoubted finishing ability of Salas in attack. He converted two half chances against Italy and any forward capable of that will find shots easier to come by against Austria. Chile's defence is controlled by the elegant Margas but he will be tested by the physical approach of Polster who will be supported by Ivica Vastic in attack if Andreas Herzog is dropped and an extra forward used. Austria will need to attack more than they did against Cameroon but they will find it hard going against a Chile side who felt they were hard done by with a poor penalty decision against them that allowed Italy back into the match. Chile were involved in an even contest with the Italian side and Austria do not have the individual skill of the likes of Roberto Baggio needed to expose the Chilean defence.

Austria will rely on a direct game but could find themselves hit to pieces on the break if they play too far forward. Whereas Chile can call on two world class finishers, the deficits in the Austrian camp are about to be revealed.