Storm in Lille

This is why President Jauk is consumed by “stadium envy”

Mika Biereth warmed up for Lille in the final training session.(Bild: Sepp Pail)

When Sturm entered the Decathlon Arena Stade Pierre Mauroy, named after the long-term mayor, on Wednesday evening during the final training session in Lille, it was clear to everyone that the stakes would be very high on Thursday. Lille are a home power in the 50,186-capacity arena: 13 wins, two draws and just one defeat this season.

A record worthy of the surroundings: The arena, which was built in 2012 at a cost of 324 million euros and hosted six matches at EURO 2016, has 76 boxes and 1842 box seats. Like the Schalke Arena, the roof can be completely closed in 30 minutes. The northern half of the pitch can be moved over the southern half, ensuring a multifunctional character: In addition to the tennis Davis Cup final in 2014 and 2017, motocross races and concerts are also held here. In 2023, the Rugby World Cup was held here and in summer 2024, handball and basketball preliminary round matches are scheduled as part of the Olympic Games.

Click through the pictures:

Mika Biereth is Sturm's big goal hope.(Bild: Sepp Pail)

Sturm before their departure for what will probably be their last European Cup game of the season.(Bild: Sepp Pail)

Coach Ilzer with midfielder Stankovic.(Bild: Sepp Pail)

Kiteishvili and his colleagues still want to create a sensation.(Bild: Sepp Pail)

Christian Ilzer and his coaching staff have to hope for a miracle after the 3-0 defeat.(Bild: Sepp Pail)

David Affengruber (right) has his work cut out for him on Thursday.(Bild: Sepp Pail)

Sturm warming up in the 50,000 spectator arena(Bild: Sepp Pail)

Prass, Wüthrich and Schnegg have already tested the comfortable substitutes' bench in the Decathlon Arena.(Bild: Sepp Pail)

Otar Kiteishvili is ready for the tough trip to Lille.(Bild: Sepp Pail)

Sturm's top management around Andreas Schicker, Christian Jauk and Thomas Tebbich were impressed by the stadium temple.(Bild: Sepp Pail)

Sturm president Christian Jauk is sure to take one or two ideas for his vision of a Sturm stadium with him - even if Lille's home ground will not be sold out with 20,000 to 30,000 spectators against the Black & Whites on Thursday.