Liverpool secured a victorious start to their UEFA Europa League (UEL) campaign by coming from behind to defeat LASK Linz 3-1, thanks to second-half goals by Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz, providing inspiration for Jürgen Klopp’s team. This outcome extends Liverpool’s unbeaten streak to 17 matches in all competitions, with 12 wins and 5 draws.
Returning to the UEL for the first time since their loss to Sevilla in the 2016 final, Liverpool arrived in Austria with high confidence following a remarkable beginning to their domestic season. Their initial encounter against the in-form LASK promised to be a challenging test, and it was the hosts who surprisingly took the lead in the 14th minute when Florian Flecker unleashed a remarkable long-range shot into the far corner.
Despite falling behind for the fourth time in their last five matches, Liverpool actively sought an immediate response. However, clear-cut opportunities were scarce as LASK defended resolutely during a tightly contested opening half-hour. As halftime approached, Liverpool continued to press for an equalizer, but Tobias Lawal denied Núñez from close range, leaving the Austrian side with a slender advantage at halftime.
Despite an uninspiring first-half performance from Liverpool, Klopp resisted making changes during the break. Within 10 minutes of the second half, the visitors were presented with an opportunity to get back into the game as Philipp Ziereis fouled Díaz in the penalty area. Núñez stepped up and calmly slotted the ball into the top-left corner, leveling the score. With the momentum on their side, Liverpool struck again just seven minutes later, with Díaz finishing brilliantly from Ryan Gravenberch’s well-placed cross.
Clearly surprised by the rapid turnaround by the visitors, LASK attempted to regain their composure in the final 20 minutes as they searched for a late equalizer. However, it was Liverpool who added to their lead with a goal from substitute Mohamed Salah, securing three hard-earned points and maintaining their good form ahead of a home match against West Ham United over the weekend. As for LASK, the Austrian side will be eager to bounce back quickly after suffering only their second defeat in 17 European matches