Dundee United defender Krisztian Keresztes spoke with the broadcast media to preview our UEFA Europa Conference League Third Qualifying Round battle with SK Rapid Wien.

Our Hungarian stopper emphasised the importance of a strong mindset, home advantage and his connection with his colleagues in the backline.

ON THE SQUAD'S MENTALITY HEADING INTO THE RETURN LEG

The mood in the dressing room ahead of the big game is positive. After the weekend match, we took time to refresh both mentally and physically. We’re preparing just as we did last week. We know it’s going to be tough—they’ll try to force us into uncomfortable situations—but we’re ready for that.

I believe we’ve prepared well. Now it’s about seeing what tomorrow brings. We need a winning mentality. We need to be brave and give everything. That’s the only way through in a tie like this.

Confidence is key. You can’t play football without it. You have to be brave, take risks, and earn the rewards. These are the types of games where you grow as a player. There’s a big prize on the line, so we have to step up, start strong, make smart decisions, and give 100%. Then we’ll see where that takes us.

From my European matches so far, the biggest thing I’ve learned is that the result is everything. Style doesn’t matter in games like this—it’s all about the outcome. You can play well, but if you don’t get the result, it means nothing.

ON OUR OPPOSITION

Rapid Vienna are a strong team, but going over there and getting a draw showed we can hurt them. That gives us confidence. They just beat Sturm Graz 2-1 away and were champions last season. They’re dangerous at the European level, and we know we’ll have to be at our best.

I wouldn’t say we’re favourites, but we’ll fight until the very end. It’s going to be a battle - but we’re ready.

ON UTILISING HOME ADVANTAGE

Playing at home is a big advantage. Our fans are incredible—they give us so much energy. Just like it was tough for us to play there, it’ll be just as tough for them to come here. We want to use that to our advantage.

The support in the European matches so far has been amazing. The fans could be the difference tomorrow. We need as many people as possible in the stadium. That kind of backing lifts you—even when you’re tired, it gives you a push to keep going.

The mentality of the supporters here is different. They celebrate everything—throw-ins, tackles, duels. They find ways to support us no matter what, and that energy helps massively. You feel the emotion in the game, and that emotion gives you something extra. I try to channel it in a positive way.

ON ADAPTING TO LIFE ON AND OFF THE PITCH QUICKLY IN SCOTLAND

Even though I’ve only been here a few weeks, I already feel settled into Scottish football. I enjoy the physical side of the game, and I think it suits me. Before I joined, I gave my all at my previous club, knowing that if I stayed prepared, another opportunity would come. I’ve prepared well over the past year, and now I’m focused on repaying the trust the staff have shown me.

Honestly, I hadn’t thought much about playing in Scotland before the move—it was a bit of a surprise. But I feel my physicality and speed fit the league well. Mentally, I try to stay ready every day, and if I keep doing that, I believe I can be a good fit for the team.

Playing on the European stage means a lot to me. I want to repay the belief the staff have shown in me and keep improving.

I got advice from former coaches and my manager, who also played in the UK. They said the football culture here is different—fans are passionate and emotional about every moment. I’ve seen that already, and it makes a real difference.

So far, I’ve really enjoyed my time at Dundee United. The people have been welcoming and helpful—it’s made it easy to settle in.

ON HIS STRONG BOND WITH THE REST OF THE REARGUARD

A lot of us have joined the club recently, especially in defence, so it’s a new-look back line. But football is a universal language. It hasn’t been too hard to adjust because everyone shares the same mindset. We’ve all played since we were kids. It’s just about getting on the same wavelength and going for it together.

We’re all thinking the same way, and that makes it easier to connect on the pitch. The understanding is growing, and we’re pushing in the same direction.

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