Sturm Graz/Stattegg Women 2–3 St. Pölten Women
Austrian Frauen Bundesliga – 23 May 2026

Match Overview

St. Pölten Women demonstrated their champion resilience with a 3–2 comeback victory over Sturm Graz/Stattegg Women in a thrilling Austrian Frauen Bundesliga encounter. The visitors, long-time powerhouses of the league, recovered from a two-goal deficit to snatch all three points and keep their title hopes alive.

Sturm Graz Stun the Favorites

The home side came flying out of the blocks. Within 20 minutes they were 2–0 up thanks to a well-struck free kick from Lisa Wagner and a clinical finish from Marlies Steiner after a defensive error. St. Pölten looked uncharacteristically shaky at the back, and Sturm Graz’s energetic pressing forced several misplaced passes. The first half ended with the underdogs firmly in control.

The Comeback

St. Pölten’s experience showed after the restart. Captain Viktoria Pinther pulled one back with a powerful header from a corner in the 55th minute. The momentum shifted dramatically, and Sturm Graz began to tire. An equaliser arrived in the 70th minute when Jennifer Klein slotted home from a tight angle after a flowing team move. The winner came six minutes later – Stefanie Mayer rose highest to head in a cross and complete the turnaround.

Key Moments

• 2–0 lead for Sturm Graz – Could have been 3–0, but a goal was ruled out for offside.
• Pinther’s header – Changed the psychological complexion of the game.
• Mayer’s winner – A classic St. Pölten set-piece goal under pressure.

Season Significance

The victory kept St. Pölten within striking distance of the top of the Frauen Bundesliga table. For Sturm Graz/Stattegg, the collapse was a bitter blow but showed they can compete with the league’s best for extended periods. The result underlined the competitiveness of Austrian women’s football this season.