Sturm Graz vs SK Brann: Prediction, Team News, Lineups Preview

Sturm Graz hosts SK Brann at the Merkur Arena on Thursday in a crucial Europa League clash. For Sturm Graz, the match follows their recent exit from the tournament, while Brann is still vying for a spot in the knockout rounds.

Match Preview: Sturm Graz vs SK Brann

Sturm Graz recently suffered a 3-0 defeat to Feyenoord, marking a disappointing end to their Europa League campaign. With only one victory in this season’s competition, their focus now shifts to domestic league performance. Currently, they trail Bundesliga leaders Red Bull Salzburg by just four points.

• Sturm Graz’s Europa League form: WLDLLL
• Sturm Graz’s recent form: WLWLLL

Despite their struggles, Sturm Graz sees this match as an opportunity to regain confidence. With a total of only two wins in their last 11 matches, they aim to improve before league play resumes.

Brann’s Campaign

Conversely, SK Brann is in contention for the knockout stages with nine points from seven Europa League matches. Their last outing against Midtjylland ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw, thanks to a last-minute penalty by Joachim Soltvedt.

• Brann’s Europa League form: WWDDLD
• Brann’s recent form: DLDWLD

Midfielder Emil Kornvig has been pivotal for Brann, contributing three goals. Striker Noah Holm has also been influential, adding two goals and an assist. However, Brann heads into the game without a win in their last four European matches.

Team News

Sturm Graz will be without key players, including Alexandar Borkovic, recovering from a serious knee injury. Defensive stalwart Dimitri Lavalee is also sidelined with a knee injury that could affect his availability for a significant portion of the season.

Brann faces its own injury challenges. Forward Saevar Magnusson remains out after a long-term knee injury, and fellow teammates Niklas Castro, Sakarias Opsahl, and Jonas Torsvik will also miss the trip to Austria. Additionally, defender Eivind Helland has left for Serie A, creating further defensive concerns.

Possible Lineups

Sturm Graz

• Christensen
• Mitchell
• Aiwu
• Geyrhofer
• Karic
• Gorenc-Stankovic
• Chukwuani
• Rozga
• Kiteishvili
• Malone
• Jatta

SK Brann

• Dyngeland
• De Roeve
• Knudsen
• Boakye
• Dragsnes
• Kornvig
• Sorensen
• Pedersen
• Mathisen
• Holm

This match presents a stark contrast in motivations. While Sturm Graz has already been eliminated, SK Brann aims to secure their place in the next round. With their pressing need for success, Brann is likely to emerge victorious.

Final prediction: Sturm Graz 1 – 2 SK Brann.