NEWS
Possible Sturm Opponent? Sparta Takes Step Towards CL Playoff
Sparta Prague turns the first leg against Olympique Lyon around and goes into the second leg with a slight advantage.
For Sturm Graz, the clash in the third round of Champions League qualification between Sparta Prague and Olympique Lyon could be of great importance.
Should Austria's vice-champion prevail against Fenerbahce Istanbul (first leg on Wednesday, 8:00 PM in the LIVE ticker >>>), they will face the winner of the clash between the Czech and French representatives in the playoff.
After the first leg, Sparta Prague has the upper hand. The home team wins 2:1.
In the 20th minute, it gets tricky for the first time. A Sparta goal is disallowed after VAR review due to a foul. Subsequently, Suchomel scores an own goal almost with the half-time whistle, giving the French the lead (45.).
Lyon Misses Penalty - Prague Turns the Game Around
In the second half, the hosts manage to turn the game around.
Rynes (63.) equalizes, but just three minutes later, Lyon is awarded a penalty after a foul. Tolisso misses it, so it's Mercado (69.) who seals the 2:1 win for Prague.
Should Sturm prevail, the playoff matches would take place on August 18/19 (first leg/home) and August 25/26 (second leg), respectively.
