La gardienne de but autrichienne Modesta Uka: "Il faut la laisser jouer"

Modesta Uka, the goal-scorer for Austria, has spoken candidly about her need for rest before a crucial match, highlighting both her personal routine and the team’s reliance on her performance. The 27-year-old forward, who scored three goals in Austria’s 4–0 victory over Brann Bergen, admitted she slept for an hour just before the game. “Sleep helps always,” she said, adding that she continued her long periods of rest even after the win. Despite the success, Uka did not celebrate with a big party, instead choosing to sleep until midday the following day. She explained, “After a win, one simply needs sleep.” Austria’s coach, Stefan Kenesei, has praised Uka’s contributions to the team, emphasizing her technical skills, physical strength, and ability to make a difference in high-stakes matches. “She puts herself at the service of the team, possesses outstanding left-foot technique and physical power,” he noted. Captain Carina Wenninger echoed these sentiments, calling Uka a “great team player” and someone whose presence draws fans to the stadium. Wenninger highlighted Uka’s “brutally good finish, especially with the left foot,” and described her as a potential game-changer in key fixtures. Born in a small village in Kosovo, Uka began playing football in the streets and gardens of her hometown before moving to Austria at the age of 14. She joined a club in Styria before eventually signing with Sturm Graz in the summer of 2025. Since joining Austria, she has developed her physicality, according to Kenesei, and has become a vital part of the squad. Her teammates have also praised her positive influence, noting how she brings energy and morale into the dressing room. “She spreads good mood and good vibes,” said Wenninger, while Kenesei added that Uka’s enthusiasm makes the locker room more lively. However, Uka is not without challenges. While her coaches appreciate her freedom and creativity on the field, they acknowledge that her independent nature can be demanding. “She’s a free spirit,” Kenesei admitted, though he stressed that this trait is essential for her to perform at her best. “We trust her, and she returns that trust through her performances,” he said. Uka agrees, stating that feeling unrestricted allows her to play freely and deliver her best. For her, this sense of autonomy is a given within the current Austria setup. Looking ahead, Austria is set to enter the group stage of the Women’s Champions League, with their opponents to be announced on September 4th. Uka expressed a desire to face Real Madrid, revealing her admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo. “He’s the greatest!” she said. Among the potential rivals are teams such as FC Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and Manchester City. The draw will take place at 12:00 noon on September 4th, with the first round of group-stage matches scheduled for September 22nd and 23rd. Kenesei aims for a competitive campaign, hoping to secure victories and attract large crowds to the stadium. His focus is on delivering results rather than pursuing an Olympic-style approach. With Uka as a key figure in the squad, Austria is confident in its chances to make an impact in Europe’s top-tier competition. As preparations continue, the team looks forward to the upcoming matches, ready to showcase their talent and determination on the international stage.