Hearts were knocked out of the Champions League after a 2-0 defeat to Sturm Graz at Tynecastle, losing the tie 6-0 on aggregate. Wouter Vrancken had called for a magical night, but his side could not overcome the four-goal deficit from the first leg.
Harsh lesson
The Jambos started brightly, forcing dangerous set pieces, but Sturm goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow made crucial saves to deny Szymon Wlodarczyk, Seedy Jatta, and Jacob Hodl. VAR overturned a goal from Jatta after he was adjudged to have tripped Harry Milne. Hearts' best chance came just before half-time when Calvin Miller's cutback caused chaos in the Sturm defence, but they failed to score. Captain Stephen Kingsley then limped off, summing up a frustrating night.
Simon Seidl fired home a wonderful angled half-volley on 64 minutes after a simple punt forward, and Emran Soglo added a second four minutes later, bundling home after Schwolow saved his first effort. Hearts were toothless in attack, with Oisin McEntee, Blair Spittal, and Claudio Braga all missing chances.
Fair Douz
Summer signing Sabri Guendouz showed flashes of brilliance in the number 10 role, making penetrating runs and trying tricks. The Frenchman has 'couilles' as they say, but his influence faded as the game went on. Vrancken wants more end product from the 26-year-old, who could be one to watch this season if he delivers.
Pitts your XI?
Vrancken's starting XI for Saturday's Premiership opener at Aberdeen remains unclear. Blair Spittal and Oisin McEntee were again preferred in midfield, but the pairing was cut open too easily. Left centre-back is likely to change after Kingsley's injury, with Stuart Findlay or Jamie McCart options. Claudio Braga looks better as a support striker, which could open the door for Amadou Ba-Sy to lead the line.
Tynie troubles
Hearts had not lost a match in normal time at Tynecastle for 458 days and 24 games, but that record was ended by Sturm's two second-half goals. The Gorgie atmosphere was crackling, but gaps appeared as Hearts pushed forward.
Euro change
Hearts drop into the Europa League third qualifying round, where they will face either Benfica or St Gallen. The Swiss side hold a one-goal advantage over Benfica heading into the second leg. Vrancken will have another week to work with his squad, but Hearts need continuity, familiarity, and a goalscorer.
