League: Champions League Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

Hearts struggle in Champions League qualifying defeat to Sturm Graz

Sky Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 21, 2026, 9:41 PM

Last updated Jul 21, 2026

Hearts struggle in Champions League qualifying defeat to Sturm Graz

Summary

Hearts faced a challenging start under new head coach Wouter Vrancken, suffering a 4-0 defeat against Sturm Graz in the Champions League qualifying second round. The match took place on July 21, 2026, at the Liebenauer Stadium. Despite creating early chances, Hearts conceded two set-piece goals and struggled defensively throughout. With this result, they face a tough task in the second leg at Tynecastle next Tuesday as they aim to keep their Champions League hopes alive.

Source Links

Sky Sports

By the Numbers

•Sturm Graz leads Hearts 4-0 after first leg of qualifying round
•Hearts conceded goals from set pieces early in each half
•Vrancken's lineup featured two debutants
•Second leg scheduled for next Tuesday at Tynecastle
•Hearts risk dropping into Europa League qualifying

What they're saying

"
New Hearts head coach Wouter Vrancken endured a nightmare debut as his side's Champions League hopes all but vanished with a 4-0 defeat against Sturm Graz.
— Sky Sports

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Champions League Soccer