FC Augsburg wins the anniversary edition!

After an intense preliminary round and two thrilling semifinals, SK Rapid Vienna and FC Augsburg face off in the final.

The 20th international Dr. Nimmrichter Memorial Tournament once again featured top clubs from both international and Austrian football. Leading the field were the Italian record champions and multiple European Cup winners Juventus Turin and the 7-time German champions FC Schalke 04.

In an exciting preliminary round, Group A saw a fierce battle for the two coveted semifinal spots. Ultimately, the four-time winner Austria Vienna and FC Augsburg emerged victorious, leaving Juventus Turin and Admira Wacker behind. In Group B, Schalke 04 secured the top spot, with SK Rapid Vienna finishing second ahead of Red Bull Salzburg.

Thus, the two semifinal matchups were set. In the first game, the big Vienna derby between SK Rapid Vienna and FK Austria Vienna took place, moderated by the voice of the Austrian national team, Andy Marek.

In a thrilling and intense match, the Austrian record champions SK Rapid Vienna prevailed with a 1-0 victory, securing their spot in the final. The second semifinal was an all-German affair between FC Augsburg and Schalke 04. After a goalless game, the finalist against Rapid Vienna was determined in a penalty shootout. After a record-breaking 44 shooters, FC Augsburg emerged victorious with a score of 19-18, advancing to the grand final.

To the title melody of the UEFA Champions League, the two finalists entered the stadium before a sold-out crowd. In an exciting and intense final, FC Augsburg took a 1-0 lead after 10 minutes. The game remained balanced thereafter. In the second half, SK Rapid Vienna was the dominant team but failed to create clear scoring opportunities. FC Augsburg managed to hold on to their lead until the final whistle, and the celebrations were huge when FIFA referee Markus Hameter blew the final whistle. As part of the grand award ceremony, in addition to all participating teams, the best individual players were also honored.

Best player: Daniel Markl, SK Rapid Wien

Best keeper: Matthias Zehetgruber, SC Wieselburg

Top scorers: Daniel Markl (SK Rapid Wien) and Mario Guttmann (Admira)