Sturm Graz vs. Monaco: Preview and betting tips

Sparta’s cat from the third round of the Champions League will close the Europa League group stage with a match at Sturm Graz. Monaco are already assured of first place, yet they cannot be counted on to drop the game. What to expect from the match?

Sturm Graz are already without a chance of qualification before the last round, or they can’t even finish third. They have not won a single point in the group of death, but on the other hand they are doing well in the league, finishing third.

Even for Monaco, Thursday’s game will be more of a burden in a demanding schedule, as the princely club has secured the first place and is focusing only on the league. They are not doing so well in the league, from seventh place they are already sixteen points behind first-placed PSG.

Kelvin Yeboah is in excellent form in the home camp, the twenty-one year old Italian has scored twelve goals and assisted eight times this season. Experienced playmaker Jakob Jantscher boasts a 13+10 record.

Monaco striker Wissam Ben Yedder has not yet scored in the Europa League, but has a decent 11+3 record across all competitions. Sofiane Diop is also an unexpected mainstay, the France Under-21 international has been instrumental in eleven goals (7+4).

Sturm Graz are struggling defensively, scoring at least twice in six of their last nine games. This plays into the hands of Monaco, who have scored twelve goals in their last five games.

Given Monaco’s form and the width of their squad, I expect the visitors to win.