Full Focus on the Next Challenge

The team's recent results were evident in their performance in Vienna (see match report), with head coach Thomas Darazs noting a certain level of insecurity within the squad. "Things weren't all bad before. However, we've allowed recent results to unsettle us. Now we need to work on overcoming that," explained the 46-year-old, who gave Bundesliga debuts to Enis Safin (20) and Tomas Galvez (19).

Despite having more possession against Austria, LASK struggled to gain control of the game and assert dominance. Even Marin Ljubicic's goal—his 32nd in 80 competitive matches for LASK—didn't provide the necessary confidence, especially after the immediate equalizer. "Football is a sport where you need a lot of confidence. With the confidence we had at the start of the season, we showed some really good things," Darazs said, referencing the strong performances early on in the ÖFB Cup and the league.

In this challenging phase, it is crucial to stand together to return to the path of success. "With positive results, the momentum shifts in a different direction. A good player, a good team player, and also a good coach show their true character when things get a bit uncomfortable. When the sun was shining at the end of last season, it was easy to smile. Now we have to see how we handle things when the wind gets a bit rougher," said our coach, highlighting what is now essential.

The coming days will be used as effectively as possible to prepare for the second leg of the Europa League qualifier against FCSB Bucharest on Thursday. The team will depart for the Romanian capital on Wednesday, with a final training session scheduled at Stadionul Steaua in the evening. The outcome of Thursday's match will determine whether LASK will compete in the Europa League or the Conference League this fall, following the 1-1 draw in the first leg. Three days later, the Bundesliga home game against Wolfsberger AC awaits at the Raiffeisen Arena, before the first international break of the new season begins.

Match report | Summary

Tickets FCSB | Tickets Wolfsberger AC