LASK Drops to Conference League After Last-Minute Defeat

For the first time this season, Maksym Talovierov was given a starting role, taking up a position in defensive midfield. Despite the home team’s energetic start, backed by their fans, it was the Linz side that created the first chances. Captain Philipp Ziereis narrowly missed the target with a header from a corner in the 10th minute. Five minutes later, Adil Taoui tested goalkeeper Stefan Tarnovanu with a shot, and just four minutes after that, George Bello came close to converting a cross from Usor.

The match remained open until halftime, with LASK frequently winning the ball and creating promising situations, though they failed to capitalize. A prime example came just before the break when Taoui, accompanied by Marin Ljubicic, ran towards the opposing goal, but his cross lacked precision. Earlier, goalkeeper Jörg Siebenhandl was forced into action for the first time, saving a long-range effort from David Miculescu in the 43rd minute. By then, Sascha Horvath was already off the field, having been substituted by Lenny Pintor in the 38th minute due to an injury concern.

After the restart, the Black and Whites made a strong start, coming close to taking the lead twice. First, Taoui's shot from a tight angle was saved by goalkeeper Tarnovanu in the 51st minute, and seconds later, Usor's attempt narrowly missed the far post. Big scoring opportunities then became scarce as both teams avoided taking too many risks with the score still level. The Linz defense remained solid for much of the half, but inaccuracies crept into their attacking plays.

The second half was characterized by intense duels and growing tension. In the final stages, the Romanians gained some control again, with substitute Daniel Popa creating a good chance that Ziereis managed to clear in the 82nd minute. As the match seemed headed for extra time after another close call from Taoui, FCSB struck in the dying moments. Darius Olaru found too much space on the left, drove into the box, and smashed the ball under the crossbar to give the hosts a 1-0 lead in the 93rd minute. LASK had no response and will now compete in the UEFA Conference League group stage for the second time. The draw will take place on Friday at 2:30 PM.

FCSB Bucharest – LASK 1:0 (0:0)
Stadionul Steaua, Referee: Zwayer/GER
Goal: 1-0 Olaru (93rd minute)
Yellow Cards: Ngezana, Popa, Tanase; Berisha, Usor, Ljubicic, Pintor, Tibidi

Line-up LASK: Siebenhandl – Bogarde (94' Boateng), Ziereis, Stojkovic, Bello – Horvath (38' Pintor), Talovierov – Usor (86' Tibidi), Taoui, Berisha – Ljubicic