The first-round match between Salzburg and Hartberg is a classic case of being the favorites not guaranteeing a walkover. True, the hosts are traditionally strong off the bat: they haven't lost on the first day of the season since 2016, and haven't lost their home openers since 2000. However, Hartberg arrives with a solid foundation of confidence: last season, they lost only three away games, and in their last head-to-head encounter, they crushed Salzburg 3-1 at home, earning their first victory in the history of the match.
Salzburg have won 18 of their previous 25 matches, but Hartberg have noticeably improved their consistency recently, losing five of their last six by a single goal or less. Moreover, the average goal total in head-to-head matches is 3.4, and the "both teams to score" bet has a winning percentage of 53%. This means Hartberg has a realistic chance of scoring, and even if they lose, they are unlikely to lose by two goals.
An additional factor is the roster changes for both teams. Salzburg has many new players, including new goalkeeper and striker Haris Tabakovic, who are just getting used to their new roles. Meanwhile, Hartberg has brought back experienced coach Markus Schopp, who already knows how to beat Salzburg. Given these circumstances, as well as the hosts' likely rotation before the European Cup match, Hartberg looks capable of putting up a fight and keeping the suspense going until the final whistle.
