Sturm Graz 4–1 SC Kalsdorf
International Club Friendly | 9 July 2026, 00:00

Austrian Bundesliga side Sturm Graz comfortably defeated lower‑league SC Kalsdorf 4‑1 in a friendly designed to boost fitness and sharpen attacking fluidity. The match, played at a moderate tempo, allowed Sturm Graz to experiment with formations and give several players their first pre‑season minutes.

Early pressure pays off

Sturm Graz controlled possession from the outset, pinning Kalsdorf back in their own half. The breakthrough came in the 14th minute when winger Mika Biereth cut inside from the left and curled a shot into the far corner. The hosts doubled the lead soon after: a powerful drive from midfielder Stefan Hierländer from the edge of the area.

Kalsdorf, playing with determination, managed to pull one back just before half‑time. A defensive mix‑up in the Sturm box allowed forward Lukas Weber to tap into an empty net, briefly giving the underdogs hope.

Sturm pull clear in the second half

The Austrian top‑flight side reasserted control after the interval. Striker William Bøving restored the two‑goal advantage with a clinical finish in the 54th minute, and substitute Manprit Sarkaria added a fourth with a well‑placed header from a corner.

The final 30 minutes saw Sturm Graz manage the game efficiently, keeping possession and preventing Kalsdorf from creating any further chances. The friendly served its purpose for both clubs: Sturm Graz gained match sharpness, while SC Kalsdorf will value the experience against a higher‑level opponent.