Analysis The numbers behind the result
Sturm Graz clinical despite Hearts' possession dominance
Sturm Graz's 2-0 victory was justified by their superior shot quality, despite Hearts dominating possession (64%) and attempting more total shots (15 to 17). The Austrians were more efficient, landing 9 shots on target to Hearts' 4, and converting two quickfire second-half goals through Simon Seidl (64') and Emran Soglo (68') to seal the tie. Hearts' territorial control (8 corners to 2) failed to translate into clear chances, with their 7 off-target efforts highlighting wastefulness.
The game turned in a decisive four-minute spell midway through the second half, with Sturm Graz punishing Hearts' inability to turn possession into penetration. Seidl's opener, assisted by Jon Gorenc Stankovic, and Soglo's solo effort came from two of their 13 shots inside the box – underlining their focus on high-value chances. The key stat: Sturm Graz's 9 shots on target to Hearts' 4, demonstrating their superior cutting edge despite seeing less of the ball.