Hartberg against GAK: Derby victory ensures relegation?

Hartberg against GAK: Derby victory ensures relegation?

On Friday, April 24, 2025, the decisive Steirer derby between TSV Hartberg and the GAK is on the program. The kick -off is at 7:30 p.m. and Hartberg could practically secure the relegation in the Bundesliga with a win. Hartberg currently has a solid lead of eight points on the pursuer Altach and coach Manfred Schmid hopes to complete the topic of relegation battle with a clear victory. With a 3-0 in the first derby in Graz, Hartberg demonstrated that they are in strong form, with Patrik Mijic and Donis Avdijaj being the main actors.

In the last meeting, which took place in the Mercury Arena, the Hartberg team showed an impressive performance. Mijic scored two goals and Avdijaj headed another one, which brings the team into a favorable location. The return of captain Jürgen Heil and Raphael Hofer is considered crucial for the defensive stability, while Hartberg continues to work on the successful team chemistry.

GAK fights for the turn

In contrast, the GAK is currently fighting with massive problems on the offensive. Under the new coach Ferdinand Feldhofer, the team was only able to score one goal in the last five games. Feldhofer himself notes that the team lacks the necessary precision to win games. Before the derby, defense chief Petar Filipovic calls a consistent performance over the entire 90 minutes. The last 3-0 defeat against Hartberg has further tightened the situation, and the team is under pressure to show a reaction.

In the case of defeat, GAK also had to deal with individual mistakes and a red card, which impaired the chances of a better result in the second half. Laszlo Kleinheisler will not be in the squad due to injury, which also weakens the already battered offensive. Nevertheless, the plan is to concentrate on the revenge in the coming game.

statistical background

The statistics from the Bundesliga show how crucial Friday is for both teams. Hartberg not only dominated the last duels, but also the momentum for itself. A victory would bring her into the safe zone and make it easier to fight for relegation. The table situation and the entire course of the season lead to an exciting final in the qualification group. The current statistics show the challenges in front of which the GAK is facing and strengthen the need to finally collect points again.

The enthusiasm for the upcoming duel is high for both the Hartberger and the GAK supporters, and the fans can look forward to an exciting game that could possibly mark the decisive turning point in the race for relegation.