Sturm's quick attacks after winning possession meet Celje's direct service into a supported striker. Both routes have recent European examples behind them. The important distinction is between creating the first opening and controlling the attacks that follow.
Weinhandl's immediate pass to Diakité after a Marseille turnover showed Sturm's surviving pressure-to-finish connection. Celje demonstrated a different route against Salzburg: Sešlar supplied Kramer after a long pass, and substitute Kučys later finished Dukuly's service. Sturm's cup exit also exposed difficulty controlling an aerial target and the following receiver.
The current Sturm report describes continuing absences, with no fresh injuries or immediate returns. Helac and the available attacking replacements have already played under those conditions. Diakité appeared from the bench in the latest league match and is expected to start here. Celje's European selection must account for unlisted players, including Ćalušić despite his domestic appearance; the Salzburg midfield and the retained Sešlar, Kvesić and striker options provide the relevant alternative evidence.
Sturm should seek early recoveries, while Celje can bypass that first pressure and bring support around the forward. The available starting and substitute strikers give Celje a demonstrated response route as the game develops. That's why I'm siding with Celje to keep this close, with a narrow Sturm victory returning the stake.
