The club has repeatedly become the champion of Austria. However, currently, on the national stage, “Red Bull” (Salzburg) is unquestionably dominating. With such a strong favorite in the league, “Sturm Graz” has arguably squeezed the maximum possible, finishing second in the local Bundesliga two times in a row (also adding another cup victory in the spring). What Christian Ilzer and his team struggle with is performing well in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers. A year ago, the Austrians lost to the first opponent, Kyiv’s “Dynamo” – although they had a chance to go to overtime at home after a 0-1 away loss but failed to capitalize. This time in Eindhoven, they suffered a heavy defeat, which essentially makes the reception of the Dutch team in Graz a formality. Nevertheless, of course, they should attempt to please the fans with at least a nominal revenge.
In recent years, the team has also become the runner-up in the Netherlands – first behind “Ajax,” and in the last season, they fell to the second place behind “Feyenoord.” Obviously, this led to the end of Ruud van Nistelrooy’s coaching career with the team. Ruud left even before the conclusion of the Eredivisie, and they won the cup without him. Peter Bos was appointed to the post, a coach with a controversial reputation but experienced and, during his time in Amsterdam, successful. He started well in his new position, first defeating “Feyenoord” 1-0 in the Super Cup (similarly to his predecessor last year with “Ajax”), and then overpowering “Sturm Graz.” By the 32nd minute, De Jong already scored three goals, although they did concede once in return. However, in the middle of the second half, Sangar? restored the significant lead, making it 4-1.
