Bodo/Glimt are heavily favored to complete their Champions League play-off victory over Sturm Graz, carrying a commanding 5-0 lead from the first leg. Despite Sturm Graz’s status as Austrian Bundesliga champions, their performance in Norway exposed significant vulnerabilities. While Sturm Graz will aim to restore pride and mount a comeback at the Worthersee Stadion, Bodo/Glimt’s superior form and attacking prowess make them the clear favorites to advance to the Champions League League Phase. The prediction is a 2-0 win for Bodo/Glimt.
The UEFA Champions League qualifying play-off round continues this week with a significant second leg clash between Sturm Graz and Bodo/Glimt. The encounter, set to unfold at the Worthersee Stadion in Klagenfurt on Tuesday evening, presents a daunting challenge for Sturm Graz, who find themselves trailing 5-0 from the first leg. The odds are heavily stacked in favor of the Norwegian side, and a resolute performance will be needed from the Austrian champions to even contemplate a comeback.
Sturm Graz, a historically prominent club in Austrian football, clinched the Austrian Bundesliga title last season, earning their place in the Champions League qualifying stages. However, their European ambitions have been severely dented by the comprehensive defeat in Norway. Jürgen Säumel’s team now faces an uphill battle, requiring a monumental turnaround to reach the coveted League Phase of the Champions League. The first leg result was a stark reminder of the quality Bodo/Glimt possess, and the Austrian side will need to drastically improve their performance to avoid further embarrassment.
Recent form hasn’t been kind to Sturm Graz. Prior to the 5-0 thrashing in Norway, they secured a 3-1 victory over Ried in the Austrian Bundesliga, offering a glimmer of hope. However, this was preceded by a 2-1 defeat against Rapid Wien at home, highlighting inconsistencies within the team. The pressure is now firmly on Säumel and his players to deliver a performance that can reignite their Champions League dreams, even if the task appears almost insurmountable.
Sturm Graz are expected to deploy a 4-1-2-1-2 formation, aiming to provide a solid defensive structure while offering attacking impetus. Christensen will be tasked with keeping Bodo/Glimt at bay in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Johnston, Oermann, Lavalee, and Karic. Gorenc-Stankovic will anchor the midfield, providing defensive cover, while Horvat, Kiteishvilli, and Chukwuani will operate in attacking midfield roles, tasked with creating opportunities for the forward duo of Grgic and Boving.
Bodo/Glimt, meanwhile, arrive in Austria brimming with confidence. Kjetil Knutsen’s side are reigning Eliteserien champions and are on the cusp of securing their place in the Champions League League Phase. Their dominant 5-0 victory in the first leg has given them a significant advantage, and they will be eager to finish the job in Austria. 'Superlaget', as they are known, are a well-organized and potent attacking force, capable of causing problems for any opponent.
Bodo/Glimt’s recent form has been impressive, although a recent 1-1 draw with Tromso in the Eliteserien suggests they might not have everything their own way. This followed a dominant 5-0 victory over Stromsgodset, showcasing their attacking prowess. The team is expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Haikin in goal, protected by a defensive line of Sjovold, Bjortuft, Aleesami, and Bjorkan. Evjan, Berg, and Saltness will form the midfield trio, while Maatta, Hogh, and Haude will lead the attack.
Key statistics paint a clear picture of the contrasting fortunes of the two teams. Sturm Graz have scored 10 goals in their last 5 games, but have also conceded a significant number. Bodo/Glimt, on the other hand, have been prolific in front of goal, netting 15 times in their last 5 matches while maintaining a relatively solid defensive record, conceding only 2 goals. Bodo/Glimt’s superior form and the commanding first-leg lead make them firm favorites to advance to the next stage.
The challenge for Sturm Graz is not merely about scoring goals; it’s about restoring pride and demonstrating resilience. They need to address the defensive vulnerabilities exposed in the first leg and find a way to contain Bodo/Glimt’s dynamic attack. However, given the magnitude of the first-leg deficit, a comeback appears highly improbable. Bodo/Glimt will likely approach the second leg with a cautious approach, aiming to control possession and exploit any weaknesses in the Sturm Graz defense.
All signs point towards a Bodo/Glimt victory, and a comfortable progression to the Champions League League Phase. While Sturm Graz will undoubtedly fight hard, the Norwegian side’s superior form and first-leg advantage make them the overwhelming favorites to secure the win.
Prediction: Bodo/Glimt to win 2-0
Best Odds: 12/1
Bookmaker: Zetbet