Vrancken's tough start as Hearts face Sturm Graz in Champions League

Under the floodlights of Edinburgh’s Tynecastle, a sea of red and white waited as the new manager took his first steps onto the pitch. Wouter Vrancken’s debut with Hearts in the Champions League against Sturm Graz set the tone for a challenging night.

The Tuesday evening marked Vrancken’s official start as head coach of the Scottish club, a role he assumed with optimism but quickly faced a harsh reality.

In the second qualifying round of the Champions League, Hearts were beaten 4‑0 at home by Austrian side Sturm Graz, leaving the prospect of a title seemingly out of reach for the Scottish vice‑champions.