First Vienna FC 1894 secured a narrow 1-0 victory against SK Sturm Graz in their final Admiral Women Bundesliga match of the season. The game, played on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the Natural Arena Hohe Warte, saw a goalless first half before Linda NatterS penalty in the 70th minute sealed the win for the home side in front of 265 spectators.

Early Exchanges and Tactical Maneuvering

The match began cautiously, with both teams feeling each other out. Sturm Graz initially held a slight advantage in possession, but struggled to penetrate Vienna’s compact defense. The home side’s backline remained resolute, denying Sturm any clear-cut opportunities.

Vienna Finds Their Rhythm

As the first half progressed, Vienna began to assert themselves, creating several promising chances. One notable opportunity fell to Wucher, whose shot following a left-sided attack was ultimately unsuccessful. Shortly after, a dangerous cross from Höcherl caused a scramble in the sturm Graz penalty area, but a timely intervention from a Sturm defender prevented Hahn from capitalizing.

Missed Opportunities Before the Break

Vienna continued to press, with Gebert heading an Amuchie cross directly at the goalkeeper. Rukavina also tried her luck with a long-range effort,but her shot sailed over the bar. Sturm Graz,though,regained their defensive composure,frustrating Vienna’s attempts to break through. Just before halftime, both teams had golden opportunities to take the lead. A defensive error from Fuchs allowed a Sturm Graz attacker a one-on-one chance, but her shot went narrowly wide. Vienna responded promptly with fuchs heading a corner just off target.

Both teams had a largely balanced duel in the first half. The Vienna came to the better chances, but lacked the last outcome in the end. Sturm remained dangerous about counterattack, but could also not capitalize on it.So it went into the cabins with a goalless 0-0.

Natter’s Impact and Second-Half Dominance

Vienna coach Dobrounig made a tactical change at halftime, bringing on Linda Natter for Wucher. The substitution paid immediate dividends, as Natter’s early shot was deflected for a corner. Vienna dominated the second half, pinning Sturm Graz back into their own half. despite their territorial advantage, clear chances remained scarce until a pivotal moment in the 69th minute.

Penalty Drama and Decisive Goal

Amuchie’s pace and skill in the penalty area proved too much for the sturm Graz defense, as she was brought down, resulting in a penalty. natter stepped up and confidently converted, giving Vienna a 1-0 lead. Natter took responsibility and confidently transformed the 1-0 lead for the Döblingen women. shortly after, Vienna made a double substitution, bringing on Németh and Kappenberger for Höcherl and Fankhauser.

Closing Stages and Near Misses

Sturm Graz struggled to mount a meaningful response,with their attacks largely limited to set-pieces. Vienna’s defense remained solid, and the home side continued to create chances. In the 86th minute, Natter was unlucky to see her powerful shot hit the crossbar. Late substitutions saw tomczak and Falk replace Rukavina and Gebert. Kappenberger had a chance to seal the win in the final minute, but failed to control a long ball, allowing the opportunity to slip away.

In the end there was a well-deserved 1-0 home win for the Vienna women who celebrated a accomplished end of the season.

Emotional Farewells

The match also served as an emotional farewell for seven players leaving the club: Julia Kappenberger, Loretta Németh, Linda Natter, Magdalene Rukavina, Liv-lilith Falk, Milla Puck, and Christina Schönwetter. The club expressed its gratitude for their contributions: The Vienna says thank you – for your commitment, your passion and the many moments together on and off the square. All the best for your next steps-you stay part of the Vienna family!

Match details

• Competition: Admiral Women Bundesliga, 24th round
• Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
• Time: 2:00 p.m.
• Venue: Natural Arena Hohe Warte
• Attendance: 265
• Score: First Vienna FC 1894 vs. SK Sturm Graz 1:0 (0:0)
• Goal: 1:0 Natter (70′, penalty)
• Vienna Lineup: Piplits, Amuchie, Fuchs, Höcherl (71′ Németh), Kovar, Seidl, Fankhauser (71′ Kappenberger), Hahn, Rukavina (87′ Tomczak), Gebert (87′ Falk), Wucher (46′ Natter)