Overview
Friedrich "Friedl" Koncilia (born 25 February 1948) is an Austrian former professional football goalkeeper. He is best known for his long association with FK Austria Wien and for serving as Austria's first-choice goalkeeper across much of the 1970s and early 1980s. Koncilia combined reliability with a strong positional sense, earning recognition at both club and international levels.
Club career
Koncilia spent the core of his club career in Austria, where he became a prominent figure in domestic competitions. He was especially associated with FK Austria Wien, representing the club in league and cup competitions and contributing to their status among Austria's leading teams. Earlier and later spells at other domestic sides rounded out a multi-decade professional career.
International career
On the international stage Koncilia represented the Austria national team, appearing regularly for his country during a period when Austria qualified for major tournaments. He was the national side's goalkeeper in important matches and in World Cup campaigns of the late 1970s and early 1980s, helping to raise Austria's profile in international football.
Playing style and reputation
As a goalkeeper Koncilia was noted for his steady reflexes, command of the penalty area on crosses, and a calm temperament that suited the demands of top-level competition. Contemporary reports and teammate testimony often emphasize his consistency and leadership from the back. He served as a model of professionalism for younger goalkeepers in Austria.
Legacy and notable facts
- Often referred to by the diminutive "Friedl," he remains a memorable figure in Austrian football history and club lore.
- Koncilia's career is frequently cited in discussions of Austria's football development in the 1970s and 1980s and is referenced in historical overviews of the national team setup and goalkeeper tradition.
- Biographical and statistical summaries of his career can be found in national archives and football reference collections (biographical sources), and in club histories that document his seasons with Austria Wien and other teams.
For readers seeking concise career data and match records, several sport databases and the club's historical pages provide season-by-season listings and contextual analysis of Koncilia's influence on Austrian football player profiles.