AEK Athens win 1-0 against LASK Linz

The UEFA Champions League League Phase fixture took place on 8 September 2026 at the OPAP Arena in Athens. AEK Athens hosted Austrian side LASK Linz in front of a home crowd, each team looking to claim three points in the early stages of the competition.

How it unfolded

The match opened with both sides probing for openings, but the deadlock was broken in the 21st minute. Razvan Marin stepped up to take a free kick just outside the box and struck a right-footed shot that curled into the top right corner, giving AEK Athens a 1-0 lead. The goal, described as a precise set-piece execution, set the tone for the remainder of the half.

Four minutes later, the rhythm shifted when Luka Jovic of AEK Athens was shown a yellow card in the 40th minute. The booking was recorded without a specific reason in the match report.

Just two minutes after Jovic’s caution, LASK Linz’s defender Melayro Bogarde received a yellow card in the 42nd minute for a bad foul. The dismissal reduced LASK’s defensive options and added further discipline concerns for the visitors.

The second half remained tightly contested, with LASK pressing for an equaliser but finding few clear chances. In the 80th minute, LASK midfielder Andrés Andrade was booked for another bad foul, receiving his own yellow card. The late booking underscored the physical nature of the encounter but did not alter the scoreline.

Despite sustained pressure from LASK Linz in the closing stages, AEK Athens held firm, preserving Marin’s early lead until the final whistle.

Standout performers

Razvan Marin was the decisive figure, delivering the only goal of the match from a well-taken free kick. His composure and accuracy on a set piece provided the winning margin and highlighted his importance in AEK Athens’ attacking repertoire.

Match facts

  • Final score: AEK Athens 1-0 LASK Linz
  • Goal scorer: Razvan Marin (21')
  • Bookings:
    • Luka Jovic (AEK Athens) – 40'
    • Melayro Bogarde (LASK) – 42' (bad foul)
    • Andrés Andrade (LASK) – 80' (bad foul)
  • Venue: OPAP Arena, Athens

What it means

The victory gives AEK Athens three points from their opening League Phase match, putting them ahead of LASK Linz, who leave the game without points. Both clubs will look to build on the result as the group stage progresses.