| Liverpool vs LASK | |
| MATCH | UCL |
| DATE | 14 - 10 - 2026 |
| TIME | 10.15 PM IST |
| STADIUM | Raiffeisen Arena |
Match Preview
LASK Linz will be looking to end their recent poor run of form when they welcome Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League. The Austrian side started their domestic campaign impressively, recording seven consecutive victories, but their momentum has faded following their opening European defeat.
LASK suffered a narrow 1-0 loss against AEK Athens on September 8, conceding a first-half free kick from Razvan Marin. They subsequently lost 2-1 to Sturm Graz and were beaten 2-0 by Rapid Vienna, extending their winless run to four competitive matches. With Liverpool arriving as their next opponents, the hosts face a challenging task to get their European campaign back on track.
LASK's historical record against English opposition provides little encouragement. They have never beaten an English club in six previous encounters, recording one draw and five defeats. Their home record against English teams is also concerning, with two losses and one draw. The Austrian side will need a disciplined defensive performance and greater efficiency in front of goal to challenge Liverpool.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have experienced an inconsistent start to the season as they continue adapting to a period of transition under manager Andoni Iraola. The Reds suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat against Manchester City at Anfield, with Ryan Gravenberch's dismissal contributing to their difficulties during the match.
Despite that setback, Liverpool will take confidence from their previous Champions League victory against Atletico Madrid. They recovered from an early disadvantage to secure a 2-1 win, with Dominik Szoboszlai equalising before Alexis Mac Allister scored the decisive goal shortly after half-time.
However, Liverpool could face selection challenges ahead of the trip to Austria. Szoboszlai is a doubt with a hamstring problem, while Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak are also dealing with injuries. Hugo Ekitike remains unavailable as he continues his recovery from an Achilles injury. These absences could limit Liverpool's attacking options and force Iraola to rely on younger players.
Despite their recent defeat, Liverpool have an excellent historical record against Austrian opposition, losing only once in 10 meetings. They have also remained unbeaten in five competitive away matches against Austrian teams, winning four and drawing one.
LASK will hope that home advantage can help them produce a stronger performance, but Liverpool's European experience and impressive record against Austrian clubs make the visitors difficult opponents to overcome.
Team News
LASK Linz
LASK are expected to be without Ramiz Harakate, who is recovering from a knee injury. Moses Usor is a doubt after suffering a shoulder problem in the previous match, while George Bello is sidelined with a muscle injury.
If Usor is unavailable, Sasa Kalajdzic and Christoph Lang could form the attacking partnership, with Kasper Jorgensen and Yvan Dibango providing width from the flanks.
Liverpool
Liverpool could be without Dominik Szoboszlai, who has been struggling with hamstring tightness. Alexis Mac Allister is expected to play an important role in midfield alongside Ryan Gravenberch, subject to team selection and availability.
Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak are doubts with ankle and thigh problems respectively, while Hugo Ekitike remains out with an Achilles injury.
Lewis Koumas could lead the attack if Liverpool's senior forwards are unavailable. Rio Ngumoha, Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola are among the potential attacking options. Liverpool may also need to manage their squad carefully because of limited depth in certain positions.
Match Prediction
Liverpool will enter this contest as favourites because of their European pedigree and stronger historical record against Austrian opposition. LASK's recent defensive struggles could create opportunities for the visitors, although Liverpool's own injury concerns may prevent them from dominating throughout the match.
The home side could threaten on the counterattack, but Liverpool's quality in midfield and attacking areas should give them the advantage.
Prediction: LASK Linz 1-2 Liverpool
Liverpool are expected to secure a narrow victory, although LASK could make the contest competitive if they improve their defensive organisation and take their chances.