SK Sturm Graz

vs

Hearts Of Midlothian FC

Preview

SK Sturm Graz

• SK Sturm Graz won three of their last five matches (D1, L1).
• Fabio Ingolitsch took charge on 1st January 2026.
• The hosts base out of a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1.
• They have the width and pace to overload wide areas, hit fast breaks and press with intensity.

Hearts Of Midlothian FC

• Hearts won two of their last five games (D1, L2).
• Wouter Vrancken is still getting to know his new squad.
• He has used a 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 base.
• They press in an organised way and have the talent to create chances.

Betting Insights

• SK Sturm are priced at 2.25 as favourites.
• Hearts are priced at 2.85 and the draw is 3.4.
• A Sturm or draw double chance is suggested as a safer alternative.
• The hosts are strong at home with five wins, two draws and one defeat.

Prediction

• This looks a tough test for Hearts at Graz-Liebenau Stadium.
• Sturm enter this qualifier with three straight wins and clear momentum.
• Sturm's game is high-energy down the wings and they will press to win second balls.
• Sturm have averaged 2.75 goals per home match and conceded 1.38 in all competitions.
• Hearts average 1.50 away goals per game and have won six, drawn two and lost two of their last ten matches.
• If Hearts keep it compact and organised they can make it difficult, but the home side look likelier to win.
• Recent Sturm results include:
  • SC Kalsdorf 4-1 (h)
  • Sanfrecce Hiroshima 5-1 (h)
  • Pogon Szczecin 1-0 (h)