Lillestrom vs LASK Linz Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews

This one had the makings of a reasonably close tie but the 1st Leg quickly dispelled that notion, with LASK Linz carrying a significant advantage into this Thursday’s 2nd Leg against Lillestrom. A tough Europa League 3rd Qualifying Round clash against Turkish side Besiktas almost certainly awaits the winners of this one so it’s hard to see either team coming through that one.

It will almost certainly be LASK that progresses after a 4-0 win in Austria last week. Midfielder Thomas Goiginger was the star with two goals, including a last minute strike which effectively killed off the tie. It will be interesting to see how both sides approach this, given the result seems certain and it’s mostly a mission to restore pride for Lillestrom.

Lillestrom are in the midst of a really poor run of form right now. They’ve not won any of their last 7 games in the Eliteserien and are slipping dangerously into a relegation battle. They may even have some temptation to just totally write this game off and try to focus their energies on Sunday’s league game with Molde but they will also want to head into that match on the back of a better performance having not played since last week’s 1st Leg. They only appointed Swedish coach Jörgen Lennartsson a few weeks ago so he will demand a much better showing here in what is only his second game at the helm.

LASK Linz have the luxury of a four goal cushion but unlike Lillestrom they have played since last week’s 1st Leg. They were on the wrong end of a 3-1 Bundesliga defeat at Salzburg on Sunday, which wasn’t exactly the ideal way for them to start the new league season. They may consider resting a few players here but there should be no danger of them not progressing.

Overall it’s a game that promises to deliver goals again. All of LASK’s last 9 matches including friendlies have produced over 2.5 goals in total. They certainly showed they have all the tools to unlock this Lillestrom defence last week but they aren’t totally convincing at the back themselves. 5 of their last 9 matches (including those friendlies) have seen them let in 3 or more goals so they can’t totally afford to relax here and think the job is done.

Lillestrom have nothing much to lose here so they may as well have a go and try to grab an early goal and some kind of footing in the tie. 4 of their last 6 matches have also produced over 2.5 goals and they’ve at times managed to find an extra gear in the final third, although clearly they are too easily exposed at the back.

We should see a more even game this week but it’s likely to be open again and backing Over 2.5 Goals appeals.