Rapid faces costly self-inflicted defeat, squad reduction likely

Austrian football club Rapid Vienna is facing a period of introspection and likely restructuring after a costly elimination from the Conference League. The team's defeat in a penalty shootout against Hearts, despite having a numerical advantage during the match, has resulted in the loss of millions in potential revenue, jeopardizing season goals.

Coach Johannes Hoff Thorup attempted to frame the loss as a mere "disappointment" rather than a "setback" for the team's development. However, the financial implications of missing out on the Conference League's league phase are significant and cannot be easily dismissed. The club's management, led by Katzer, has indicated a need for thorough analysis before making any rash decisions regarding the squad.

The defeat represents a self-inflicted wound for Rapid, as they failed to capitalize on their opportunities, including playing with an extra man at one stage. This inability to convert advantage into a win has led to a critical juncture for the club, where a reduction in the squad size appears to be an unavoidable consequence of the missed financial windfall.

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it is not a setback for the team's development, but only a disappointment