Storm against bulls

The duel for the throne captivates everyone

Ratkov (left) and Gazibegovic will give each other nothing.

(Bild: GEPA pictures/ David Geieregger)

(Bild: Pail Sepp)

(Bild: Sepp Pail)

More top match is not possible! SK Sturm Graz and FC Red Bull Salzburg meet in the Styrian capital this Easter Sunday. The "Krone" compares the two teams and analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of the two best clubs in the Austrian Bundesliga. 

Easter Sunday this year is dominated by the clash between Sturm and Salzburg in the domestic Bundesliga. After the "nest search", many soccer fans are likely to focus on the match for the top of the table. The stadium in Graz has long been sold out and the TV sets will be on fire(17, live on Sky). The "Krone" analyzes the two teams in advance. 

The stadium in Graz has long been sold out.

(Bild: Sepp Pail)

DEFENSE

Salzburg have only conceded 13 goals in their 23 league games so far - they have never been better. The Pavlovic/Solet bulwark is in good form, and goalkeeper Schlager is also a reliable back-up. The bitter pill to swallow is that the ever-present Dedic will miss the clash in Graz due to injury, and his counterpart Terzic, who normally plays on the left, is also doubtful.

Not only Salzburg, but also the Styrians have a strong defense. The ball was only in their own box 15 times - the defense around the ex-Bulls Affengruber and Gazibegovic is difficult to crack.

Conclusion: a draw. Both have a good defense, the loss of Dedic hurts. 

The loss of Amar Dedic could cause problems for the Bulls.

(Bild: GEPA pictures)

MIDFIELD

The Bulls have an ideal mix of creativity, vision and fighting spirit. Record man Gourna-Douath is getting better and better and is expected to control the game from the back. Bidstrup is an asset with his lively nature. Kjaergaard stands out not only for his running ability but also for his quality with set pieces. And Gloukh can decide a game with one action. Another positive: "magic foot" Sucic could return to the squad.

Graz are also well-positioned in the center and have an aggressive leader in Gorenc-Stankovic and a fine technician in Kiteishvili.

Conclusion: Salzburg have the advantage. The quality of the Bulls players is slightly higher.

The quality of Oscar Gloukh and Co. is higher than that of the Graz midfield.

(Bild: Jasmin Walter - FC Red Bull Salzburg)

ATTACK

Salzburg's trump card is Fernando. The Brazilian rocket can cause problems for any opponent with his pace. His partner Ratkov is a weapon in the air. Overall, the champions have a wide range of options and can add Konate or Koita.

Sturm's hopes rest on the Viking duo Biereth/Boving. The two Danes have scored five times between them in the last three competitive matches. 

Fernando is currently Salzburg's most dangerous attacker.

(Bild: Andreas Tröster)

But with Biereth (left) and Böving, Graz also have a strong attack.

(Bild: Marlene Borkenstein)

Conclusion: Salzburg's squad width gives them the advantage.

Just like the overall conclusion: Salzburg has a tick more quality and goes into the game as the favorite. With a win, they could extend their lead to five points and make a small preliminary decision in the title race.