Key Takeaways:
- AEK Athens ended their run of six successive UEFA Champions League group stage defeats with a 1-0 win over LASK
- Razvan Marin netted the game’s only goal with a free-kick in the 21st minute at Allwyn Arena
- This result marked the first time a Greek side has beaten Austrian opposition in European Cup or UCL history
Match Overview
AEK Athens marked their return to the UEFA Champions League with a hard-fought 1-0 triumph over LASK at the Allwyn Arena, a win that not only halted their unwanted streak of six consecutive group stage defeats in the competition but also made Greek football history against Austrian opponents.
First Half: Early Pressure and Marin’s Spectacular Free-Kick
The hosts wasted no time asserting themselves, generating their first significant opportunity inside just three minutes. Luka Jovic latched onto a through ball inside the box, his quick snapshot ultimately blocked by LASK goalkeeper Lukas Jungwirth, whose head prevented an early deficit for the visitors.
FULLTIME: ΑΕΚ – LASK 1-0#AEKFC #ForzaAekara #UCL pic.twitter.com/pqnhLxt1Wi
— AEK F.C. (@AEK_FC_OFFICIAL) September 8, 2026
LASK attempted to soak up pressure and counter, with Melayro Bogarde firing a 25-yard effort towards the bottom right corner, but AEK keeper Alberto Brignolo was equal to the task.
AEK, featuring in the Champions League group stage for the first time since the 2018-19 season, found the breakthrough in the 21st minute. Razvan Marin executed a superb free-kick from the left side of the area, curling his effort over the defensive wall and into the top right corner to ignite celebrations among the home supporters.
Near the interval, AEK could have doubled their advantage when Marin, unmarked from another set-piece, headed over from close range after bouncing the ball into the ground and over the crossbar.
Second Half: LASK Threaten, VAR Denies Jovic, AEK Hold Firm
LASK returned for the second period determined to increase their attacking intent. Less than four minutes after the restart, Sascha Horvath found himself advancing into the area, but Brignolo produced a vital low save to keep the Greeks ahead.
AEK briefly thought they had given themselves breathing room just after the hour, when Luka Jovic headed into the net. However, VAR intervened and the effort was chalked off for offside.
The closing minutes saw the reigning Greek champions defending doggedly as LASK pressed for an equaliser. Despite the tension among home fans, AEK held on to signal a triumphant return to Europe’s top competition.
| Team | Score | Goal Scorer |
|---|---|---|
| AEK Athens | 1 | Razvan Marin (21′) |
| LASK | 0 | – |
