Sturm Graz loses 1:2 against Celtic after passivity debacle!

Sturm Graz loses 1:2 against Celtic after passivity debacle!

The UEFA Europa League duel between Celtic Glasgow and SK Sturm Graz resulted in an exciting clash, which the Scots ultimately won 2-1. This game took place at Celtic Park and was an important victory for the hosts after seven previous games without a win in Europe.

The game started promisingly for Sturm Graz when Tomi Horvat took the lead with a precise long-range shot in the 15th minute. Coach Roman Mählich emphasized that Sturm played well in the first 25 minutes. Nevertheless, he criticized his team's declining aggressiveness and compactness, which allowed Celtic to find their way back into the action.

Game progression and turning point

After falling behind, Celtic increasingly pushed for an equalizer and were rewarded for their efforts. Mählich noticed that Sturm Graz's passivity was crucial and that it brought back the opponent, who got their goals from set pieces. The two goals from Liam Scales and Benjamin Nygren came within just three minutes of the second half and shocked the visitors.

Celtic suffered some injury problems in the first half. Kelechi Iheanacho had to leave the field early and Alistair Johnston, making his first start since August, was also injured. Despite these setbacks, the team put in a fighting performance that was praised by coach Brendan Rodgers.

Maps and statistics

The tension on the pitch led, among other things, to Tochi Chukwuani receiving a red card in the 70th minute for a foul on Callum McGregor. Sturm Graz's team came under increasing pressure as Celtic took advantage of their chance for their first win of the season in the Europa League, especially after the disappointing 2-0 defeat to Dundee before this game.

In summary, it should be noted that Sturm's goals came from set pieces and less from the game, which Mählich noted as crucial. He explained that Celtic were the better team for the entire 90 minutes, which explained their deserved win.

For more information on Europa League statistics and progress, visit kicker.de.

Detailed reports about the game can also be found at laola1.at and skysports.com.