The UEFA Champions League qualifier between Sturm Graz and Heart of Midlothian on July 21, 2026, presents an intriguing clash of contrasting fortunes. Sturm Graz enters this tie on the back of an unconvincing pre-season, having drawn all three of their recent outings, scoring and conceding seven goals in the process. Their winless streak suggests a side still searching for cohesion and confidence heading into competitive action.
Conversely, Heart of Midlothian arrives with significant momentum, boasting an impressive 64% win rate from their domestic campaign, alongside a strong recent run of three wins and two draws from their last five matches. With 63 goals scored and just 31 conceded domestically, the Jambos appear a far more settled and potent outfit. The equal win probability of 33% for all outcomes, despite the statistical disparity, highlights the unpredictable nature of early European qualifiers. Hearts will look to exploit Sturm Graz's defensive frailties, while the home side will aim to leverage their home advantage and spring a surprise against their more in-form Scottish opponents. Watch for Hearts’ attacking prowess against Sturm Graz’s likely cautious approach.
25. A. Schwolow, 12. C. Borchgrevink, 3. S. Kingsley, 31. O. McEntee, 10. C. Braga, 6. T. Renaud, 24. J. McPake, 19. S. Findlay, 18. M. Kamara, 29. S. Kerjota, 21. A. Ba-Sy
Match events
4' Goal Normal Goal — J. Gorenc Stankovic (Sturm Graz) (assists: J. Mitchell)
46' subst Substitution 1 — S. Seidl (Sturm Graz) (assists: O. Kiteishvili)
48' Card Yellow Card — C. Borchgrevink (Heart Of Midlothian)
50' Goal Normal Goal — J. Mitchell (Sturm Graz) (assists: O. Kiteishvili)
53' Goal Normal Goal — L. Weinhandl (Sturm Graz) (assists: S. Jatta)
57' Card Yellow Card — J. Gorenc Stankovic (Sturm Graz)
59' Goal Normal Goal — J. Heil (Sturm Graz) (assists: L. Weinhandl)
59' subst Substitution 1 — A. Kyziridis (Heart Of Midlothian) (assists: S. Guendouz)
59' subst Substitution 2 — P. Kabore (Heart Of Midlothian) (assists: A. Ba-Sy)
59' subst Substitution 3 — C. Miller (Heart Of Midlothian) (assists: S. Kerjota)
70' subst Substitution 2 — S. Wlodarczyk (Sturm Graz) (assists: G. Haider)
70' subst Substitution 3 — S. Jatta (Sturm Graz) (assists: N. Weiper)
70' subst Substitution 4 — J. Hodl (Sturm Graz) (assists: R. Fosso)
75' subst Substitution 4 — B. Spittal (Heart Of Midlothian) (assists: T. Renaud)
79' subst Substitution 5 — E. Soglo (Sturm Graz) (assists: A. Malic)
84' subst Substitution 5 — O. McEntee (Heart Of Midlothian) (assists: T. Magnusson)
87' Card Yellow Card — C. Braga (Heart Of Midlothian)
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