Match Summary
Sporting CP defeated Sturm Graz 3:0. The match was played in UEFA Europa League 2023. Goals were scored by V. Gyökeres 39′, Gonçalo Inácio 60′, Gonçalo Inácio 70′. 1 yellow cards were shown. Sporting CP had 71% possession while Sturm Graz held 29%. Sporting CP had 14 shots (5 on target) compared to 4 (2 on target) for Sturm Graz. Expected goals: Sporting CP 1.64 — Sturm Graz 0.25. Sporting CP made 5 substitutions, Sturm Graz made 4.
Match Events
Key match events between Sporting CP and Sturm Graz — 3 goals and 1 cards recorded during the match.
assist: Matheus Reis
assist: M. Edwards
Match Statistics
Sporting CP had 71% possession against Sturm Graz's 29%. Sporting CP registered 14 shots (5 on target) while Sturm Graz managed 4 (2 on target). Corner kicks: 6–1. Fouls committed: 15–11.
Lineups
Sporting CP lined up in a 3-4-2-1 formation under Rúben Amorim, while Sturm Graz deployed a 4-3-2-1 under C. Ilzer.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Sporting CP is 7.19, compared to 6.78 for Sturm Graz. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Sporting CP's highest-rated starter is M. Hjulmand (7.31), while Sturm Graz's best-rated player is O. Kiteishvili (7.21).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Sporting CP have contributed 10 goals and 14 assists this season, led by Trincão (5G). Sturm Graz's starters account for 5 goals and 2 assists, spearheaded by O. Kiteishvili (3G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Sporting CP deploy 3 defenders rated — on average, against Sturm Graz's 4-man backline averaging 6.65. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Sporting CP field 4 midfielders averaging 7.18, versus Sturm Graz's 5 rated 6.99. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Sporting CP start 3 forward(s) averaging 7.23, compared to 1 for Sturm Graz averaging 6.26. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 91% for Sporting CP and 72% for Sturm Graz. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Sporting CP's starters have collected 7 yellow cards this season, compared to 2 for Sturm Graz. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Sporting CP's starting XI is 28.0 (youngest: Daniel Bragança (26), oldest: Ricardo Esgaio (32)), while Sturm Graz average 26.8 (youngest: S. Jatta (22), oldest: J. Gorenc Stankovič (29)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Sporting CP's starters average 12 league appearances each, versus 7 for Sturm Graz. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Sporting CP have recorded 4 wins, 1 draws and 1 defeats. Sturm Graz show 3 wins, 2 draws and 1 losses from their last 6 outings.
Sporting CP
Sturm Graz
API data: 15 Mar 2026