Sturm Graz can call upon two new options for today's derby against Rapid Wien. New signings Valmir Matoshi and Joshua Quarshie are in the squad for Saturday evening's match, according to a report by Kleine Zeitung Sport.
Kick-off in the Bundesliga top fixture is scheduled for 17:00. Sky is broadcasting the match live. The Black and Whites enter the duel as third in the table. After four matchdays, they have collected eight points from two wins and two draws. Their current form reads DWWD. With five goals scored and only two conceded, they have a positive goal difference of +3.
Who are the new players for Sturm Graz?
Valmir Matoshi and Joshua Quarshie are the two new signings that coach Christian Ilzer can include in the matchday squad for the derby against Rapid Wien for the first time. Both players have strengthened the club in recent days and are intended to add more depth and quality to the squad. Their exact positions and playing strengths will become clearer in the coming weeks. For the fans, it's a first chance to see the new faces in the club's environment, even if a start is not guaranteed.
Integrating new players during the hot phase of pre-season is always a challenge. However, Ilzer and his team have proven they can quickly incorporate new actors into the tactical framework. The availability of the two for this important match shows the coaching staff's confidence in their physical and tactical readiness. Further details on the squad and possible line-ups can be found on our squad page.
What is the significance of the derby against Rapid?
The match against Rapid Wien is always a season highlight. For Sturm Graz, however, it is also of great sporting importance in the current table situation. A win could see the Graz side increase the pressure on the top teams. They currently trail leaders Lask Linz by four points. A derby success would therefore be an important step in the title race.
The team has shown solid defensive work this season so far. Only two goals conceded in four games is a strong record. Against Rapid, this defensive stability will be put to a hard test once again. The Viennese are known for their offensive power and will try to pressure the league's blackest defensive line. The current table situation can be tracked on our standings page at any time.
What's next for Sturm Graz after the derby?
Immediately after the derby, Sturm Graz is already looking ahead to the next big duel. On September 13th, the Black and Whites host current table leaders Lask Linz in their own stadium. This match could already be direction-setting for the rest of the season. Preparation for this top fixture thus practically begins with the final whistle in the Rapid derby.
The tight sequence of top matches tests the quality and depth of the squad. The availability of Matoshi and Quarshie therefore comes at just the right time. They offer Ilzer more flexibility in rotation and tactical adjustment. The complete schedule for the coming weeks can be found in our fixtures calendar. The team faces a decisive phase in which it must prove its ambitions.
