LASK make their UEFA Champions League proper debut tonight, travelling to Greece to face AEK Athens, who return to the competition for the first time since the 2018-19 season. LASK secured their historic qualification by overcoming a 4-0 aggregate deficit against Celtic in the play-offs, ultimately winning 5-4, as reported by the BBC.
AEK Athens’ Return and Home Form
AEK Athens enter the match as 8/11 favourites despite having lost six consecutive Champions League group games, according to Betfair. The Greek side boasts a strong home record in European competitions, winning nine out of 11 recent ties. Domestically, they have won seven of their last eight home games across all competitions, achieving a combined aggregate score of 13-0.
LASK’s Historic Journey
Last season, LASK were crowned Austrian champions for the second time in their history. Their dramatic entry into the Champions League proper for the first time included an ‘incredible’ comeback against Celtic in the play-offs, as reported by the BBC, overturning a four-goal deficit to win 5-4 on aggregate.
Goal-Scoring Tendencies
Both teams show a tendency towards high-scoring matches. LASK have netted 33 goals this season, with over 2.5 goals occurring in 13 of their last 14 outings. Similarly, eight of AEK’s last 10 European games have also seen more than 2.5 goals, suggesting a potentially high-scoring encounter, according to Betfair.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When did LASK last win the Austrian championship?
LASK were crowned Austrian champions last season for the second time in their history.
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How did LASK qualify for the Champions League proper?
LASK came from 4-0 down on aggregate to beat Celtic 5-4 in the play-offs, progressing to the Champions League proper for the first time.
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When did AEK Athens last appear in the Champions League?
AEK Athens return to the Champions League for the first time since the 2018-19 season.
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What is AEK Athens’ recent home record in European matches?
AEK Athens have won nine of their last 11 home European ties.
