Sturm Graz vs Slovan Bratislava
UEFA Europa Conference League
Knockout Play-offs
Thursday
15th February 2024
UPC-Arena
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the UEFA Europa Conference League fixture between Sturm Graz and Slovan Bratislava.
Sturm Graz vs Slovan Bratislava: Preview
Sturm Graz form analysis
Die Schwoazn had an up and down Europa League group stage campaign. They started well with a narrow 1-0 away win over Rakow thanks to Boving’s goal. A spirited 2-2 home draw with Atalanta saw them twice come from behind, including equalizing from the penalty spot late on.
While losing 1-0 in Italy was a fair result, defeat to Rakow at home left their fate in doubt. However, consecutive 3-0 losses to conclude the stage against Sporting showed the quality gap to the top sides.
Overall, Sturm Graz were competitive for much of the stage and pushed the group favorites hard at times. Securing European football beyond Christmas is an achievement. However, their defensive frailties were exposed in defeats. With a third place finish, Sturm Graz can reflect on a solid if not entirely convincing group stage campaign. Gaining experience of this level should stand them in good stead to improve further in future European ventures.
Slovan Bratislava form analysis
Slovan Bratislava had a mixed Europa Conference League group stage. They began with a narrow 1-0 away loss to Olimpija before battling back to claim a point against Lille through a late equaliser. A tenacious 1-1 home draw with Lille kept their hopes alive. Goals from Kucka then earned three vital points against KÍ. While a late loss to Olimpija in their final game was disappointing, it could not deny their second place finish.
Slovan Bratislava showed resilience to recover from deficits on multiple occasions. Clutch goals and dogged defending at home served them well. However, their away form highlighted the improvements still needed at this level. Nonetheless, qualifying for the knockout rounds is a commendable achievement. With more consistency on their travels, Slovan Bratislava can take heart from a solid group stage campaign.
Sturm Graz vs Slovan Bratislava: Prediction
Strum Graz has lost just twice in their last seven Europa League games at home. Meanwhile, their opponents have just a win in that competition in nine most recent outings. Hence, a home win is more likely.
Almost three goals were scored in the visitors’ last five Conference League games on the road. The exact same number was observed in the last three European fixtures at this venue.
