Red Bull Salzburg vs Sturm Graz Prediction: A pivotal game that will decide the fate of the league winner

The top-seeded Red Bull Salzburg is set to host second-placed Sturm Graz at the Red Bull Arena in Salzburg. With only a two-point difference between the two teams in the standings, the outcome of this match will significantly impact their chances of winning the league. Let's delve into a detailed preview of this matchup, while also exploring potential betting opportunities.

Red Bull Salzburg aims to replicate their success with a 2-3 victory in the Austria Cup against LASK Linz. In this match, Lucas Gourna-Douath (15') and Fernando (28', 51') secured the goals for Red Bull Salzburg, while Marin Ljubičić (18') and Sascha Horvath (90') found the net for LASK Linz. Over the last six matches, Gerhard Struber's Red Bull Salzburg has scored a total of 9 goals, conceding 7. Examining their recent performance, Red Bull Salzburg has not suffered a defeat in the league against Sturm Graz in the last 4 matches and remains unbeaten in their last 3 home league fixtures.

Sturm Graz enters the upcoming match on the heels of a 2-0 victory in the Austria Cup, having triumphed over Austria Vienna in their recent fixture. Tomi Horvat (9') and Mika Biereth (45') were the goal-scorers for Sturm Graz in that game. Notably, a trend of at least one team failing to score has become quite consistent in Sturm Graz's recent matches, occurring in 5 out of their last 6 outings. During these games, Sturm Graz has scored 6 goals, while their opponents have managed a total of 5. Examining the pre-match statistics, Sturm Graz has not secured a victory against Red Bull Salzburg in their last 5 away league matches and remains unbeaten in their last 2 league fixtures on the road.

Red Bull Salzburg Possible Lineup:

Schlager, Gourna-Douath, Pavlovic, Solet, Bidstrup, Diambou, Dedic, Kjaergaard, Gloukh, Sucic, Fernando

Sturm Graz Possible Lineup:

Jaros, Gorenc Stankovic, David Affengruber, Lavalee, Schnegg, Gazibegovic, Kiteishvili, Prass, Horvat, Biereth, Sarkaria

It's challenging to dismiss either side in this encounter, considering their recent performances and the significance of this contest. Although playing at home provides a significant advantage for Red Bull Salzburg, Sturm Graz will enter the match with confidence after a convincing win over Austria Vienna in their last outing. Drawing from their past encounters, it's likely that both teams will find the net, with the hosts securing the win in what promises to be a fiercely competitive and intense match.