SK Rapid Wien vs SK Sturm Graz Best odds and tips

Sturm Graz will arrive in Vienna on Sunday as slight favourites for the win against SK Rapid Wien at 2.63, while the home side are available at 2.73 to take the spoils in one of Austria’s oldest and most storied rivalries. This is a big game with the title race implications and tactical bragging rights up for grabs. Sturm are the league leaders with 39 points from 30 games while Rapid are fifth with 24 points. Juergen Saeumel has done a fantastic job since taking over at Sturm in November 2024, maintaining the tactical discipline and quick, direct transitions that have kept his side top of the table. They are a team that likes to stay compact, play on the counter and can be tactically flexible to get the job done.

Sturm’s defence has been solid on the road, conceding an average of only 1.20 goals per Bundesliga away game (18 in 15). Gregory Wüthrich is the rock at the heart of the defence and sets the tone for a team that will keep things compact and make Rapid work hard for openings. Stefan Kulovits has instilled a high-tempo, possession-based style on Rapid in his short time in charge, but the results have been mixed. They lost 0-1 at home to Wolfsberger AC a fortnight ago, but bounced back with a 2-1 away win over Austria Wien last weekend. Dion Drena Beljo is Rapid’s main attacking threat, leading the Bundesliga group stage with one goal in seven appearances. He is an excellent dribbler and finisher, but Sturm’s defence will have to be on their game to keep him quiet.

Otar Kiteishvili is Sturm’s leading scorer in the group stage with three goals in eight appearances and will be their main target man. Szymon Wlodarczyk is an energetic and powerful striker who gives Sturm Graz pace and an eye for goal in the counter-attacking game. Thorsten Schick is a dynamic wide player who provides width and creativity from the flanks, while Guido Burgstaller brings experience and intelligent movement to Rapid’s attack. He is a focal point for the team and can make runs in behind the defence. Rapid’s home record this season is nine wins, two draws and four defeats at Allianz Stadion, while Sturm Graz have been even better on the road with eight wins, three draws and only four defeats in the Bundesliga. Rapid have scored 24 goals in 15 home games, which is decent for a team in fifth place. Sturm Graz have the momentum and better away record to edge a close game in Vienna, although Rapid’s home advantage should keep it tight. Over 2.5 Goals at 1.87 is the selection here as Rapid will try to control the game and leave gaps that Sturm can exploit on the counter.