Match Report: Sturm Graz 2–2 FK Kosice – International Club Friendly

Match Overview

Sturm Graz and FK Kosice played out an entertaining 2–2 draw in their pre‑season friendly on 3 July 2026. The match, held at Sturm Graz’s training ground, saw both sides exchange the lead in a lively contest that highlighted attacking talent and defensive frailties. For the Austrian Bundesliga side, the game was part of their build‑up to a new European campaign, while Kosice, from the Slovak Super Liga, tested themselves against top‑level opposition.

First Half: Goals Flow Freely

Kosice stunned the home crowd by taking an early lead in the 9th minute. A long ball over the top caught Sturm’s defence square, and forward Martin Bednar coolly chipped the advancing goalkeeper. Sturm responded well and equalised in the 22nd minute through a powerful header from defender David Schnegg following a corner. But Kosice were not done: in the 35th minute, a swift counter‑attack ended with midfield Róbert Hrubý firing low into the corner from 20 yards. Half‑time: Sturm Graz 1–2 FK Kosice.

Second Half: Sturm Fight Back

The Austrian side came out with renewed intensity. They pressed higher and forced mistakes from Kosice’s backline. The equaliser arrived in the 58th minute when substitute striker Manprit Sarkaria latched onto a loose ball in the box and stabbed home. Sturm pushed for a winner, hitting the post through a long‑range effort, but Kosice defended resolutely. The match ended 2‑2, a fair result on the balance of play.

Tactical Takeaways

Sturm Graz started with a 4‑2‑3‑1 but struggled to cope with Kosice’s direct transitions. After half‑time, they shifted to a more aggressive 4‑4‑2 press, which disrupted Kosice’s rhythm. The Slovak side showed they can be dangerous on the counter but need to tighten up at set pieces – both Sturm goals came from dead‑ball situations.

Standout Players

• Martin Bednar (FK Kosice) – A constant threat with his pace and clever movement.
• Manprit Sarkaria (Sturm Graz) – Came off the bench to score a vital equaliser.
• David Schnegg (Sturm Graz) – Strong in the air and contributed a goal from a corner.

Friendly Value

For Sturm Graz, the draw exposes defensive issues that need addressing before the season. The team showed character to fight back, but conceding twice against a side from a lower‑ranked league is a concern. FK Kosice will take heart from their performance and can build on this showing as they prepare for their domestic campaign.