Coming off a strong showing in the UEFA Europa League, Sturm Graz shifts its focus to the Austrian Cup, beginning its 2026 campaign with a quarterfinal matchup against SCR Altach. The cup competition offers Sturm Graz an chance to compete for domestic silverware, following their recent Bundesliga title win [[2]]. This match marks the first competitive fixture of the year for Altach, now under new management, as they aim to upset the defending champions and advance to the semifinals.
2026 Season Kicks Off with Austrian Cup Quarterfinal Clash
Sturm Graz turns its attention back to domestic competition following the conclusion of its UEFA Europa League campaign, and will begin its 2026 schedule with a challenging away fixture in the Austrian Cup quarterfinals. The team travels to face SCR Altach, aiming to secure a spot in the tournament’s semifinal round. Coach Fabio Ingolitsch’s squad looks to build on a strong European performance against SK Brann and carry that momentum into the cup competition. The single-elimination format demands precision, and Sturm Graz is focused on delivering a decisive performance.
Familiar Ground and New Faces
The match represents a return to a former stomping ground for both Ingolitsch and new signing Paul Koller. Several winter additions to the Sturm Graz roster could also make their official debuts in the black and white kit. Jusuf Gazibegović, Gizo Mamageishvili, Ryan Fosso, and Koller were ineligible for the recent Europa League matches but are now available for selection. Altach, based in Vorarlberg, will be playing its first competitive match of the year. Following Ingolitsch’s departure, the club appointed Ognjen Žarić, formerly with FC Winterthur, as its new head coach. The SCR Altach squad enjoyed a productive winter preparation, winning both of its friendly matches against FAC and FC Schaffhausen.
