Rapid is unstoppable in Linz as LASK falters before Champions League tie

Rapid won 2-0 in Linz and celebrated their seventh victory in the eighth league match, while LASK, despite home advantage, looks ahead to the upcoming Champions League encounter against Liverpool with injury problems.

Victorious Performance at the Raiffeisen Arena

The second goal came from Claudy Mbuyi, who found the net only a few minutes after coming on as a substitute, sealing the win for Rapid. Coach Johannes Hoff Thorup praised the team for staying “in the flow” and consistently implementing their own playing style.

Rapid striker Ercan Kara, who had already had a missed attempt before the break, scored in the second half in the 58th minute, marking the 30‑year‑old player's fourth goal of the current season. Kara emphasized that the ball was in the net and that he had helped the team.

LASK's Difficult Situation Ahead of Liverpool

LASK must deal with a downward‑trending form curve and several injury concerns after the loss, while the team meets FC Liverpool in the Champions League on Wednesday. Sporting director Dino Buric described the upcoming duel as an “incredibly intense, important block” and emphasized the desire to represent Austria well.

Watch LASK vs Liverpool and Salzburg vs Milan on TV

Coach Dietmar Kühbauer rates the English as “far above Rapid”, which further highlights the challenge for LASK.

Outlook and Further Developments at Rapid

Rapid lead the Bundesliga with a three‑point advantage over Salzburg, five over the defending champions, and seven over Sturm. Fastest player Yusuf Demir, 23, returned after spells abroad and has already held talks about a contract extension. Sports managing director Markus Katzer stated in the interview his intention to keep Demir and highlighted his “outstanding” performance.

Coach Hoff Thorup emphasized that after a long summer preparation the squad has now internalized the playing idea with high ball possession. He stressed that coaching work is only part of the success and that the players themselves must work hard.

The Raiffeisen Arena was sold out on Sunday, which further boosted the atmosphere for Rapid. Despite the win, the season remains challenging for both teams: LASK must quickly get back on track, while Rapid aims to further extend its lead.