Storm Graz long in Champions League after a successful experience. After three failed attempts in pursuit of points, the next task is likely to be the most difficult of the league stage.
The Austrian champions will be guests on Tuesday (9 pm). Borussia Dortmund. The German football heavyweight is three points against the foreigner despite one Injuries planned. With 81,365 viewers becomes the field sold out be.
Sturm enjoyed the “highlight game” in one of the biggest stadiums in Europe. Just run in “Yellow Wall” Dortmund Graz players have experience. The Westphalians are strong at home anyway: five wins in five league games and one 7:1 against Glasgow Celtic in the Champions League to record.
“Focus on the game”
However, the guests do not want to be frozen in surprise. “We can enjoy it until the beginning, but then we can focus completely on the game,” said the defender Niklas Geyrhofer before leaving Graz.
It’s not just the central defender who has spoken of a breakthrough awaiting Sturm. “It’s really cool to go there. This is something special for each and every one of us” said the right-hound Jusuf Gazibegovic. Regardless of this, you also have to be confident in Dortmund, said the player of the Bosnian team.
Club manager Christian Jauk said: “If we write to this game for the first time, that answers one thing small miracles. But football succeeds in this hope.” They also have more hope than a miracle 5,000 Styrian fanswho wants to cheer on Sturm live on the site.
Video: Sturm loses CL duel with Brugge
Back after 19 years
For Sturm it is the European Cup to return to Germany 19 year hiatus. The Styrians were the last guests 2005 butter Intertoto-Cup in Wolfsburg. The 2-2 draw at the time was Sturm’s only point win in four international games against German clubs.
That the Champions League stage in Dortmund is even bigger than it is Brest or later Lille it is obvious. “This step must be used,” it said Christian Ilzer.
Sturm’s coach noted that he had never been there alive in Dortmund. “It’s an absolute highlight for me too.” During the preparation, it was still important for Ilzer not to overemphasize the atmosphere. “We should not be too impressed with the atmosphere,” he said.
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Expecting “Yellow Wall”
Ilzer was in charge of the “power” of the Yellow Wall – the BVB fan stand, which has around 25,000 spectators. “We have to take on the task courageously, not hide, find the limit but also the momentum,” said Ilzer. ”It is important to trust yourself. Otherwise you have no chance.”
He can count on Dimitri Lavallée. The Belgian suffered a deep shin wound after a serious foul in the 1-1 draw against Rapid, but reported fit.
Sturm is one of six clubs – incl Red Bull Salzburg – not yet registered in the premier class. People ran after supposed opponents within reach. At Brest Stadium (1:2) at the start and in the home games against them Club Brugge (0:1) and Lisbon sports (0:2), the Graz team had to admit that every mistake will be punished internationally.
Dortmund’s bankruptcy in Madrid
Dortmund has six points. There was a clear victory against Bruges (3-0) followed by Celtic 2:5 at Real Madrid. Trainer Nuri Sahin then criticized for his changes. With the 2-1 win against Leipzig he got to breathe again at the weekend.
Marcel Sabitzer had to be there Calf problems from the park, on Monday he gave once NO Styrian who has matured into a professional who gave the all-clear. The 30-year-old should be back in midfield on Tuesday as there is also a need.
Injury concerns at Borussia
Goalkeeper Sahin complained about ten injured players Gregor Kobel about the defendants Niklas Süle and Waldemar Anton up to the striker Karim Adeyemi.
The bench against Leipzig was filled with players from Borussia’s third division team. Rotation is not possible, Şahin noted. He ranked Sturm as a tough opponent. “If you look at the last few years, it’s a club that works very sensibly. The consistency is extraordinaryeven if you consider the competition,” said Şahin.
Sturm is a “coaching team” that implements his idea “hard”. “It will be a difficult task, for sure.” Sabitzer recalled that the Graz National Salzburg “has surpassed Salzburg a little”. But one thing is out of the question for his Dortmund players: “Our mission is clear: win against them tomorrow.”
Time.news Interview with Sports Analyst Dr. Marianne Fischer on Sturm Graz’s Big Moment in the Champions League
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Fischer! We’re excited to have you here today as Sturm Graz prepares for their much-anticipated clash against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final. There’s a lot of buzz in the air. How significant is this match for Sturm Graz?
Dr. Fischer: Thank you for having me! This match is monumental for Sturm Graz, especially considering it’s been 19 years since they last played in Germany for a European competition. It’s not just about the game; it’s a return to the big stage for them. The players and fans have a chance to create lasting memories.
Editor: Absolutely! The president of Sturm Graz mentioned the potential for a ”miracle.” What do you think he meant by that, and how realistic is such an outcome?
Dr. Fischer: The idea of a “miracle” often speaks to the hope and passion fans have for their team against formidable opponents. In this case, Sturm Graz is up against a heavyweight like Dortmund. Realistically, while it may be a stretch to expect a victory given Dortmund’s strong form, the magic of football means anything can happen, especially with over 5,000 enthusiastic Graz fans in the stands to uplift the players.
Editor: Speaking of the fans, the “Yellow Wall” at Signal Iduna Park is legendary. How do you think it will impact the game?
Dr. Fischer: The atmosphere in that stadium can be electrifying and intimidating. For the Graz players, it’s essential to feed off that energy rather than be overwhelmed. Coach Christian Ilzer has emphasized the importance of mindset, which is crucial. If they can harness the environment and maintain their focus, they might find ways to challenge Dortmund.
Editor: You mentioned Coach Christian Ilzer’s approach. How important is coaching in a high-stakes match like this?
Dr. Fischer: Coaching plays a pivotal role, especially in instilling confidence and strategy. Ilzer’s experience and ability to create a tactical game plan tailored to exploit Dortmund’s weaknesses will be key. His ability to keep the team grounded amid all the hype will also be critical.
Editor: Looking at Sturm Graz’s past performances in the Champions League, they’ve struggled with consistency. What will be necessary for them to turn that around now?
Dr. Fischer: Right, their prior experiences show the need for clinical precision and resilience. To succeed, Sturm Graz must avoid mistakes, as even minor errors against seasoned teams can be ruthlessly punished. Concentration, solid defense, and taking opportunities when they arise will be crucial.
Editor: Dortmund has also faced some challenges recently. How do you see that impacting the game?
Dr. Fischer: Dortmund’s recent performances indicate fluctuations, particularly with injuries that might affect their lineup. If Sturm Graz can exploit these vulnerabilities, there’s an opportunity for them. Dortmund’s home advantage is significant, but if Graz can catch them on an off day, it could level the playing field.
Editor: What are your predictions for the match?
Dr. Fischer: While I lean towards a win for Dortmund given their form, I believe Sturm Graz can surprise. The energy from their fans and the element of unpredictability in football could lead to a tightly contested match. I’d expect them to fight hard, possibly leading to a one-goal difference but with plenty of excitement along the way.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Fischer! It’s certainly an exciting time for Sturm Graz and their supporters. We look forward to watching how this match unfolds!
Dr. Fischer: Thank you! I can’t wait to see what happens on the pitch. It’s moments like these that make football so special.