"I was astonished"

Herzog criticizes Ilzer’s decision in CL defeat

Andreas Herzog (l.) cannot quite understand Christian Ilzer's decision to make a change.(Bild: GEPA)

Andreas Herzog cannot quite understand why Christian Ilzer relied predominantly on young players in the second half of Sturm's 2-1 defeat at Stade Brest. "I didn't quite understand that," said the pundit on Sky in amazement.

"Brest played at full speed for 90 minutes. Sturm wanted to hold their own, but got worse from minute to minute in the second half," analyzed the former ÖFB team player.

"That's where I need experienced players"
"I was also a bit surprised. Now I'm playing Champions League and then I only bring on very young players from the 60th minute onwards. Of course, that's also a bit of the philosophy of Graz, but now I've replaced a Horvat, a Kiteishvili, a Biereth ... the players who have shot Sturm to titles in recent years. That's where I need an experienced player who can take responsibility in one situation or another," Herzog continued.

Words that Julian Baumgartlinger can only agree with. The former Leverkusen professional also speaks of a "used evening" for the Styrians. On Sunday, the Ilzer squad will have the chance to shake off the Champions League frustration in the Bundesliga. The reigning champions host Wolfsberger AC at 2.30 pm.