Wiener Austria stops Sturm Graz: A thrilling 2-2 after a passionate duel!

Wiener Austria stops Sturm Graz: A thrilling 2-2 after a passionate duel!

On February 7, 2025, a thrilling game took place in the ADMIRAL Bundesliga in which Sturm Graz ended Wiener Austria's winning streak. After ten consecutive competitive game wins, the Violets had to live with a 2-2 draw in this duel. In the 29th minute, William Böving gave Graz the lead with his follow-up shot after a save by Samuel Sahin-Radlinger. However, Austria quickly found its way back into the game: just seven minutes later, Nik Prelec headed the equalizer after a precise cross from Dominik Fitz (36th). At the moment the game was back and forth, splendidly supported by both fan camps.

Immediately after the break, Sturm Graz showed its offensive spirit and Böving made it 2-1 in the 60th minute with a powerful shot from around 25 meters that left Sahin-Radlinger no chance. However, the Dane had the potential to score again for his team, but missed a great chance in the 64th minute. On the other hand, it was Maurice Malone who was brought down by Niklas Geyrhofer in the penalty area. After a VAR check, referee Sebastian Gishamer awarded a penalty, which Fitz confidently converted (74'). In the final phase, Austria pushed for victory, but only hit the side netting through Gruber and were unsuccessful in their attempt to score the decisive goal (88th, 90+1).

With this draw, Sturm Graz continued to secure first place in the table with 37 points, while Vienna Austria remained in second place with 34 points. Six days earlier, Austria had emerged victorious in the ÖFB Cup, but in this new edition, Graz were able to show their high intensity form, also thanks to the debut of ex-Rapid striker Fally Mayulu in the starting line-up. How laola1.at reported, it was a return to old strength after previously disappointing results. This exciting encounter will be fondly remembered by the fans of the two traditional clubs.

Additionally, the first 20 minutes of the game were uneventful before Sturm Graz took over and created several chances, including two shots from Jon Gorenc-Stankovic and Niklas Geyrhofer, which failed to find the net. Austria's comeback under the direction of coach Michael Wimmer was impressive as they came back despite being behind and almost turned the game in their favor. Reported in this context nachrichten.at that Austria conceded two goals in this game, which made up almost a third of their total goals conceded so far in the season. The atmosphere was electric and the game sent a signal that this season's championship could be full of unexpected twists and turns.