Vienna, Austria - June 12, 2024

As the Austrian national squad gears up for the European Football Championship, football aficionados were treated to an unconventional lineup proposal from none other than Herbert Prohaska, the renowned football legend and European Championship commentator.

Prohaska, known for his astute analysis and deep understanding of the game, surprised fans by presenting his dream team - an ensemble of animals handpicked from the Vienna Zoo. In a whimsical yet intriguing twist, Prohaska envisioned an unbeatable lineup featuring an octopus in goal, an elephant in defense, meerkats in midfield, and a short-eared elephant shrew leading the attack.

Speaking passionately about his selections, Prohaska emphasized the unique attributes each animal brings to the team. The octopus, with its eight arms and unparalleled agility, promises an impenetrable defense, while the elephant's imposing size and strength instill fear in opponents and provide formidable protection at the back.

In midfield, Prohaska opted for meerkats, renowned for their keen observational skills and strategic awareness, essential qualities for controlling the flow of the game. And leading the charge upfront is the short-eared elephant shrew, prized for its lightning-fast speed and elusive movements, posing a constant threat to opposing defenses.

Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck, the zoo director, expressed pride in the animal kingdom's prowess on the pitch, highlighting their superior attributes compared to humans. While acknowledging the animals' allegiance to the zoo association, he wished the Austrian national team success in the upcoming championship.

Although Prohaska's animal dream team may remain a whimsical fantasy, it serves as a reminder of the boundless imagination and creativity that football inspires. As Austria prepares to compete on the European stage, fans eagerly anticipate the real-life talents that will take to the field in pursuit of glory at EURO 2024.