Liverpool will face Austrian champions LASK Linz in a Champions League group match that promises to test the Reds’ depth and the Bosnian side’s recent form. The game, scheduled for 5:45 p.m. BST, comes after LASK’s dramatic 5‑4 aggregate win over Celtic in the qualifying round and a domestic double last season. Liverpool, meanwhile, are looking to avoid a repeat of the 3‑1 loss they suffered to the same opponents in the 2023 Europa League, where a largely second‑string XI was fielded by then‑manager Jürgen Klopp.
LASK’s route to the group stage has been remarkable. After clinching the Austrian Bundesliga title for the first time since 1965, the club staged a comeback from four goals down to defeat Celtic over two legs. Their success has been underpinned by a strong squad, but the team is missing key players for the Liverpool clash. Nigerian winger Moses Usor, who led the club’s scoring and assists last season, is unfit and omitted from the squad. George Bello, the starting left‑back, was also injured in the recent match against Rapid Vienna, and his replacement Yvan Dibango will start at left‑wing back. These absences could influence the tactical approach that head coach Andoni Iraola will adopt.
Liverpool’s lineup is also expected to be a mix of experience and youth. The club has rested several first‑choice players in preparation for a trip to Brentford on Saturday, leaving Van Dijk, Kerkez, Mac Allister and Munoz on the bench. The Reds are reportedly considering deploying Ngumoha on the left wing, a position traditionally occupied by Bradley Barcola. Barcola has yet to register a goal or assist since joining from PSG, prompting speculation that Iraola may try a different formation. Liverpool’s recent form has seen striker Christoph Lang in good touch, having scored five goals in eight league matches, and the club will be wary of his impact.
The match will also see LASK’s midfield anchored by Melayro Bogarde, nephew of former Ajax, Barcelona and Chelsea defender Winston Bogarde. Bogarde’s presence in the middle of the park will be crucial in countering Liverpool’s attacking threats. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s attack will rely on the likes of Luis Díaz and Mohamed Salah, who have been effective in recent games. The Reds’ manager has expressed confidence in the £100 million+ pair, noting that they need to find form to secure a Champions League spot next season.
With both sides eager to secure a positive result, the encounter is set to be a tactical battle. LASK will look to build on their recent domestic success and capitalize on Liverpool’s squad rotation, while the Reds will aim to avoid a repeat of their 2023 loss and secure a place in the group stage. The outcome will determine whether Liverpool can maintain their momentum heading into the second half of the Champions League campaign.