LASK Linz vs AZ Alkmaar Match Preview

LASK Linz had the lead for quite a large amount of time in the first leg in the Netherlands. They opened the scoreline in the 26th minute, but in the dying minutes of the game they conceded the equalizer from the penalty spot. 

In the Austrian Bundesliga, LASK Linz have an amazing journey. They managed to win over the big favorites RB Salzburg away from home, while in the previous round, they prevailed by 4-1 over St. Polten, maintaining their 3-point distance in the first place from Red Bull.

There are no injuries or suspensions for LASK Linz, and we could possibly see the same first eleven as in the first leg.

Alkmaar gained hopes for qualification after the equalizing goal they managed to score in the dying minutes of the first leg. It's definitely not the favorites in this match, especially after their performance in the 1-1 draw last Thursday, however, they can still hope.

In Eredivisie, Alkmaar won 2-0 over Zwolle and maintained their 2nd place in the standings, having 2 points less than the league leaders Ajax. 

Defenders Vlaar, Wuytens, and Chatzidakos remain unavailable due to injuries, as well as the striker Gudmundsson. They were also missing in the first leg in the Netherlands.

I think LASK Linz are the deserved favorites here, despite the fact that Alkmaar have also a very good season so far. The Austrians were better, even marginally, in the first game, and tonight they will have additionally the home advantage. I do not also forget their important home wins in this season's competition against PSV Eindhoven and Sporting Lisbon. LASK Linz to win is my call.