LASK was a guest at Altach in the Bundesliga 13 times, and Linz took something home with them 13 times: Will the unbeaten streak be extended on Sunday after eight wins and five draws?
The 0-0 draw on Thursday in the third Conference League game against Cercle Brugge must be seen as a disappointment at LASK due to a long majority, as was the 1-1 draw in the league against Hartberg. Schopp once again lamented the lack of someone who was absolutely determined to get the ball over the line. “You look for explanations, but it stays with us for a long time. You can’t make the mistake of thinking that it will happen at some point. We have to work on things so that this momentum starts to turn.”
Against the Belgians, a goal was only really in the air in the final phase. “In the first half we ran over them, so we’re fit. Now it’s time to regenerate well for Sunday, create chances, just score goals and then we win,” said offensive player Sascha Horvath, explaining the route. The 28-year-old is looking forward to his 200th Bundesliga game; he has appeared 92 times for LASK so far.
A native of Linz is available for Altach
The Altach team could miss the ailing goalkeeper Dejan Stojanovic. “Whether he will be on the pitch or not, that’s why I don’t have any sleepless nights,” emphasized Altach coach Fabio Ingolitsch. Ammar Helac is available as a replacement, the 26-year-old is a native of Linz. “It’s obviously something special. As a blue and white player, I would be happy if we could annoy the black and white team. If I get the chance, I have to deliver,” said Helac.
His coach watched LASK’s appearance in the European Cup eagerly on TV. “You could see that they have great forward momentum, they just haven’t rewarded themselves. They still need some time to settle in under the new coach, I hope it takes another week or two.”
In Linz on August 10th, the Altach team won 2-1 despite only having 20.3 percent of the ball. A lot has changed since then – including on the coaching benches. At LASK, Markus Schopp is the successor to Thomas Darazs, while Ingolitsch took over from Joachim Standfest in Altach.
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T LASK is crucial as the team aims to improve its performance in the Bundesliga. The upcoming match against Altach presents both a challenge and an opportunity for LASK, especially after their previous encounter in which Altach managed to secure a surprising 2-1 victory despite having significantly less possession.
As LASK adjusts to the new leadership under head coach Markus Schopp, there are expectations for improvements on both the tactical front and in terms of team morale. Coach Schopp’s ability to settle in and implement his strategies will be key to the team’s performance in the following matches.
Ammar Helac, a native of Linz and potential replacement for the injured Dejan Stojanovic, is looking forward to making an impact in the match. His dedication to his home club and desire to upset the opposing team, traditionally strong rivals, adds an additional layer of motivation.
Thus, the upcoming clash against Altach is not just about securing points but also about consolidating team spirit and demonstrating their capability to rise to the occasion, no matter the circumstances. The blend of new coaching strategies, local talent like Helac, and the resolve to perform better indicates that LASK may come out determined to prove their worth and alter the narrative of their season.