Match Preview

The clash between Sturm Graz and Crvena zvezda in the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 – League Phase, Round 6 could be decisive for their knockout hopes. Scheduled for 11 December 2025 at the Merkur Arena in Graz, Austria, this fixture brings together two intense and physically strong sides who both believe they can go deep into the competition.

Sturm Graz approach this game with the backing of a passionate home crowd and a reputation for high work-rate and aggressive pressing. Their style is built around compact defensive organisation and quick forward surges once possession is won. In recent European nights, Sturm have shown that they can disrupt technically superior opponents with energetic pressing and vertical passing, especially when they force turnovers in midfield and release their wingers into space.

Crvena zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) arrive with enormous European experience and a tactical approach that mixes controlled possession with direct attacks. They are comfortable slowing the tempo, drawing opponents out and then switching play quickly towards their forwards. Set pieces are a major weapon; Red Star often load the box with powerful targets and have a long history of deciding tight European ties from corners and free-kicks.

The key battle is likely to take place in the middle of the pitch. Sturm Graz need their double pivot to break up play and shield the back line, while still offering clean distribution into wide areas. If they can maintain intensity for 90 minutes and avoid cheap turnovers near their own box, the Austrian side will fancy their chances. On the other hand, Crvena zvezda will try to exploit any gaps that appear when Sturm push full-backs forward, especially in transition moments.

With both teams still fighting for a strong position in the league phase, this match has the feel of a knockout tie. The atmosphere at Merkur Arena should be electric, and small details — a defensive lapse, a moment of brilliance or a set-piece routine — could decide the outcome. Expect a strategic contest with periods of end-to-end football, as neither side will be satisfied with simply settling for a draw.

TV Broadcast and Livestreams

The Sturm Graz vs Crvena zvezda showdown will be shown live in many regions through major sports broadcasters and streaming platforms. In parts of Europe, coverage is expected via DAZN and Sky Sport, while international audiences can look for the match on services such as beIN Sports and Paramount+. Selected betting platforms, including 1xBet Live, may also offer live streaming for registered users. Fans should always check their local listings and official broadcaster websites for precise broadcast information in their country.

Match Information

Odds (1X2)

Odds suggest a very balanced contest, with a slight lean towards Sturm Graz thanks to home advantage. Crvena zvezda are not far behind in the market, reflecting their European pedigree and ability to perform in high-pressure situations. The draw remains a realistic outcome given both teams’ recent results and the tactical nature of Europa League deciders. Many bettors may look at options such as Double Chance, Both Teams to Score or goal-based markets rather than committing solely to the match winner.

*Odds are indicative and may vary between bookmakers. Always check live markets before placing a bet.

Form and Head-to-Head

Sturm Graz form: Mixed results in recent weeks have left Sturm searching for consistency. They have combined strong home performances with some costly defeats, particularly when conceding first. Defensively, they can be difficult to break down when compact, but they have occasionally struggled against opponents who move the ball quickly in wide areas.

Crvena zvezda form: Red Star’s recent run includes important Europa League victories and tight, low-scoring matches. They have shown an ability to manage narrow leads and close out games, but away from home they sometimes concede early territory and rely on counter-attacks and set pieces to create chances.

Head-to-Head: Meetings between Sturm Graz and Crvena zvezda in European competitions have historically been tight and physical. Both clubs enjoy strong home support and are used to intense atmospheres, which adds extra weight to every challenge and duel. There is no clear dominant side in the rivalry, and matches are often decided by small margins such as individual errors, goalkeeping heroics or a single moment of quality from a key attacker.

Standings Context (Europa League League Phase)

This fixture is part of the final round of the Europa League league phase, where every point can play a crucial role in determining seeding and progression. Crvena zvezda currently look slightly better placed, but a home win would allow Sturm Graz to leapfrog their Serbian visitors and potentially gain a more favourable position in the knockout picture. The group remains tightly balanced, adding extra drama to an already high-stakes encounter.

Prediction

Final Score Prediction: Sturm Graz 1–1 Crvena zvezda

Prediction: Given the context, form and playing styles, this match has all the ingredients of a tense, tactical battle. Sturm Graz should start aggressively, using the energy of the Merkur Arena crowd to push forward and test Red Star’s back line. However, Crvena zvezda have enough quality in transition and on set pieces to respond and create chances of their own.

Over 90 minutes, neither side may be able to fully assert dominance. Sturm’s pressing and home momentum could earn them a goal, but Red Star’s experience and efficiency in key moments suggest they can find an equaliser. The most realistic outcome looks like a shared result, with limited scoring but plenty of intensity. Predicted result: Sturm Graz 1–1 Crvena zvezda. From a betting perspective, options such as Draw in the 1X2 market, or cautious goal bets like Under 3.5 total goals, appear sensible for this decisive Europa League clash.