by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, April 30 (silubaba) -- Team spirit and coaching consistency have long been trademarks of SC Freiburg.
In the 2022-2023 season, newly gained qualities might take the small club located in Germany's Southwest to new heights.
Ahead of decisive weeks featuring crucial matches against close rivals, the door seems open for unprecedented success for the side coached by Christian Streich since 2012.
Champions League qualification is within reach in the league after having set a record of 56 points, while the German Cup semifinals are scheduled for next Tuesday.
With the final stretch still ahead, the club's efficiency in dead-ball situations is striking, as 24 of the 46 goals were scored after corners and free-kicks.
"As a fact, this is a special quality of ours," midfielder Nicolas Hofler said.
Twelve times, SC Freiburg kept a clean sheet while achieving three consecutive league victories in recent games. A solid defense and remarkable efficiency make Freiburg a serious competitor for a side like RB Leipzig, which enjoys a significantly bigger budget.
With four rounds of matches left until the season's end, Freiburg is riding the wave, with coach Streich revealing the key to happiness.
"We have won many close games against teams placed behind us despite not being the better team when it comes to shots and covered running distances," said the 57-year-old, who has served his side for nearly 28 years in different positions.
"To win games like that is grounded on mentality and quality. It's about never stopping but continuing with your efforts. I am impressed," the coach said.
Things might still slip out of the club's hands, facing RB Leipzig in the Cup competition and the league, followed by the encounter against the surprisingly solid side of Union.
But the newly gained qualities leave room for hope in reaching the desired goals.
Better than most other clubs, Freiburg supplies its first team with talented young players who get the chance to develop. The stunning consistency on the administrative stage might deliver a solid foundation for further development.
Calmness has been a precious value, as alongside long-term coach Streich, sporting director Jochen Saier and technical director Klemens Hartenbach have been with the club for over 20 years.
Freiburg has developed several players who made their way to German national teams of all age groups. Unrest seems like a foreign word, as setbacks don't cause any turmoil.
Rather, the club seems to ride the wave due to robust self-confidence.
Game control has become a guideline, leading the side to ten games without conceding a goal in the first half.
Streich said he refuses to choose between a possible Cup win and Champions League qualification.
"We take what we get. Of course, we want it all, but if things don't happen, they don't happen," he stated, adding that his team has already achieved an outstanding season.
He is allowing dreams but is keeping an eye on the team's performance "as it is my job to ensure we get things done properly." ■
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