Bournemouth vs Sturm Graz - UEFA Europa League

The UEFA Europa League returns to Vitality Stadium on October 15, 2026, where Bournemouth and Sturm Graz will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. He had to be taken off during Morocco’s victory over Lesotho and missed the weekend’s Premier League clash vs Spurs.

The standings paint a clear picture: Bournemouth in 10th, Sturm Graz in 17th, and both keen to climb. Bournemouth have found a groove, LLWDW across their last five and operating at a win rate of 100% this season. It has been a wretched run on the road for the visitors, WWLWW in their last five and a win rate of 0% that explains their lowly standing. The contrast in attacking output — 2 versus 0.5 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. At Hull, you could argue they had a striker who cost them points.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Bournemouth will look to impose their style on home soil, while Sturm Graz are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. His passing display at the World Cup was yet more evidence of his suitability for City and the possession-heavy style Maresca favours.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer T. Guddal, with 2 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Lewis Hall in pre-season action for Newcastle United(Image: Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images) Manchester United and Arsenal sent scouts to watch Brazilian forward Kaua Elias score a perfect hat-trick for Shakhtar Donetsk, according to The Sun.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Backed by home advantage and superior form, Bournemouth ought to prevail — a 2-1 victory looks the logical call. The result at Vitality Stadium could resonate well beyond matchday in the UEFA Europa League picture. Fulham's Antonee Robinson could be one of those, who would likely be a cheaper alternative to Hall, who has just enjoyed a breakout season with the Magpies.