The Daily Star Ireland
The upcoming Europa League meeting between Sturm Graz and Rangers promises to be a fascinating contest that blends history, ambition, and tactical intrigue. Both clubs arrive at the Merkur Arena with very different trajectories — Graz are enjoying a resurgence after breaking domestic barriers, while Rangers continue to search for stability under new management.
Sturm Graz: Champions Reborn
Sturm Graz, led by head coach Jürgen Säumel, have firmly reestablished themselves as a force in Austrian football after ending Red Bull Salzburg’s decade-long dominance in the Bundesliga. Appointed in late 2024, Säumel has introduced a dynamic playing philosophy built around a midfield diamond system, which creates room for creativity and fluid attacking patterns.
At the heart of this setup is Otar Kiteishvili, the Georgian international who serves as the team’s main playmaker. Known for his ability to find pockets of space and unlock defenses with precise passing, Kiteishvili has become the cornerstone of Graz’s offensive rhythm. However, the departure of striker Mika Biereth to Monaco earlier in the year left a noticeable void in their attack, one that has yet to be fully compensated despite the team’s otherwise solid performances.
Rangers: A Team in Transition
Rangers, guided by Russell Martin since June 2025, are in the midst of a transitional period. Domestic inconsistency and defensive lapses have marred Martin’s early tenure, while injuries have further complicated matters. Notably, Dujon Sterling is ruled out until January with an Achilles injury, depriving Rangers of defensive options at a critical juncture.
Despite these setbacks, the Scottish side still carries a strong European identity. The arrival of Mikey Moore, an 18-year-old winger from Tottenham, has injected pace and directness into their attack. Moore’s emergence could prove vital as Rangers look to rediscover confidence on the continental stage. Supporters also recall their famous 5-0 victory over Sturm Graz in 2000, a result that lingers in club folklore and serves as a reminder of Rangers’ European pedigree.
Home Advantage and Tactical Dynamics
The Merkur Arena may not be the largest venue in the Europa League, but it is renowned for its electrifying atmosphere. Sturm Graz’s fans maintain a close connection with the team, often generating a level of passion that unsettles visiting sides. Rangers, who have struggled at times to build the same synergy between players and supporters this season, may find the intensity of Graz’s home crowd a decisive factor.
On the pitch, Graz are expected to remain tactically flexible, equally capable of controlling possession or striking on the counter. Kiteishvili’s movement in the half-spaces will be central to breaking down Rangers’ defensive shape, while William Bøving, despite uneven recent form, could still be a danger if given room to operate. Rangers’ defensive discipline will be tested throughout, particularly in wide areas where Graz tend to overload.
Prediction and Outlook
Current form and circumstances suggest this will be a tightly contested encounter, but Graz appear to hold the edge. Their cohesion, home advantage, and midfield control give them the tools to outlast a Rangers side still adjusting under new leadership. Rangers’ young winger Moore could provide a spark and potentially grab a goal, but sustaining pressure against a well-drilled Graz midfield will be difficult.
Predicted Score: Sturm Graz 2 – 1 Rangers
