RB Leipzig and Sturm Graz are set to clash on January 29, 2025, at the Merkur Arena, both teams already resigned to their fates as they exit the UEFA Champions League without progressing to the knockout stages. This matchup may be labeled as a "dead rubber" but promises to be significant for both sides as they aim to end their European campaigns on a high note.
RB Leipzig is coming off a mixed spell of form. They experienced six consecutive defeats prior to finally breaking their poor streak with a 2-1 victory over Sporting CP. This recent resurgence was complemented by fighting back to secure a 2-2 draw against Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen last weekend, displaying resilience and fighting spirit. Marco Rose, the Leipzig coach, is eager to build on this momentum, stating, "We want to win tomorrow. It's the Champions League - this is motivation enough." Rose expressed confidence and anticipation about the match, emphasizing, "I see a side that's put in a lot of work and is making real strides forward."
On the other hand, Sturm Graz has struggled significantly in their Champions League campaign, suffering numerous defeats, including a 5-0 demolition by Atalanta. They have managed just one win, pulling off a narrow victory against Girona, leaving them languishing near the bottom of their standings. The Austrian squad is eager for redemption, especially under the guidance of manager Jürgen Samuel, who is hoping to turn the page on their Euro-exit with a strong performance against the German side.
Team composition may play a role, with Leipzig's squad benefiting from the return of goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi, who was absent due to shoulder issues. Conversely, midfielder Kevin Kampl is a doubt due to injury, paving the way for Amadou Haidara to step up and fill the void. Despite their elimination, squad depth may allow Leipzig to field a strong side to face their rival, Sturm Graz, who have adapted their playing style to potentially unsettle the visitors. Samuel bolstered by some fresh talent from the winter break, aims to exploit Leipzig's vulnerabilities.
This match marks the first-ever competitive meeting between RB Leipzig and Sturm Graz, leading to plenty of intrigue as both teams search for deserved points. Historically, German teams have fared well against their Austrian counterparts, and Leipzig will look to continue this trend. Betting odds favor Leipzig at approximately 19/20, indicating their status as slight favorites. On the flip side, Sturm Graz’s odds stand at 11/4, reflecting their outsider status.
Marco Rose carries additional motivation himself, having faced Sturm Graz numerous times during his tenure at Red Bull Salzburg, noting his past successes against them. He hints at tactical plans to break down Graz's solid defense, mentioning, "They are strong off the ball and work hard... it will be difficult to find gaps against them. They are very dangerous in transitional play."
Meanwhile, Sturm Graz's prospects hinge on players like Jon Gorenc Stankovic and Otar Kiteishvili stepping up to support their campaign for glory. They will be leveraging their home advantage, hoping their passionate fans can uplift their performance after recent lackluster outings.
Despite the competitive pressure the game may face, both squads hold aspirations of salvaging pride and shifting their narratives positively as they march through the remaining fixtures of their respective leagues. With this dead rubber containing all the ingredients of rivalry and the potential for surprises, football fans are sure to be engaged well beyond the confines of typical European match expectations. The battle of grit and determination is always likely to yield intriguing football moments.
With dynamic encounters always possible and the unpredictable nature of football, this meeting between RB Leipzig and Sturm Graz promises to close the Champions League chapter for both teams with intensity and purpose. Each side gears up for what is bound to be both physically and emotionally charged, as the quest for redemption kicks off on the field.