Dramatic end in the ÖFB Cup: LASK fails in the penalty shootout!

Dramatic end in the ÖFB Cup: LASK fails in the penalty shootout!

LASK suffered a bitter defeat in the semi-finals of the UNIQA ÖFB Cup on April 3, 2025. The traditional club from Linz failed after a penalty shootout against Wolfsberger AC. Despite a dominant style of play and an early lead, the team had to bow to Chibuike Nwaiwu's equalizer in the 84th minute. The disappointment of elimination is compounded by the fact that LASK has been waiting for a title for over 60 years, since the double in 1965.

After the game, coach Markus Schopp was satisfied with his team's defensive performance, but expressed sharp criticism of the way they exploited their chances. “We deserved promotion,” emphasized Schopp, who also expressed dissatisfaction with some of the decisions made by referee Markus Hameter. He emphasized that important decisions were made against his team that influenced the course of the game.

Outlook for the Bundesliga

After the failed cup adventure, LASK's focus is now on the European Cup playoff of the Bundesliga. The aim is to be represented internationally next season. Captain Philipp Ziereis and coach Schopp are optimistic that the team can emerge stronger from the current situation and are convinced that the players are able to overcome even more difficult phases.

While LASK deals with this disappointment, Austrian football also looks back on its long history. The Austrian Football Association (ÖFB) recently celebrated its 120th anniversary, during which it has produced many important players. This includes, among others, Johann Studnicka, who is considered the ÖFB's first record national player and goalscorer. He had a significant influence on the development of domestic football.

The Austrian national team's first international match took place in 1902, when the team won 5-0 against Hungary and Studnicka scored three goals. In the history of the ÖFB there have been 815 A international matches and 339 victories. Such successes and historical perspectives offer today's players like LASK strength and inspiration to emerge stronger from setbacks.

To find out more about the LASK and its current developments, visit the website oefb.at/LASK which regularly reports on the club and the Bundesliga.

For further information on the history of Austrian football, including the ÖFB's remarkable statistics, visit oepb.at.