LASK kicks off the ÖFB Cup on July 24 2026 against Regionalliga side SC Kalsdorf, aiming to defend the trophy they lifted in 2024. The first‑round tie in Styria marks the club's inaugural competitive match of the new season.

What does the cup clash mean for LASK?

The opening cup fixture is more than a warm‑up: LASK wants to repeat last year’s success and chase the title again. Coach Peter Pacult says the game will test the attacking unit that has already netted 32 goals in 22 Bundesliga matches. Defensively the side has conceded 30, a modest +2 goal difference that still leaves room for improvement.

How does the current league standing look?

LASK currently sits third in the Austrian Bundesliga with 37 points after 22 games (11 wins, 4 draws, 7 losses). They trail leaders Sturm Graz by just one point, making every result crucial both in the league and the cup. The club hopes to carry any momentum from the cup win into upcoming league battles.

Who could decide the match?

Key figures include striker Marko Stanković, who has already contributed five league goals, and midfield engine Laura Kainz, responsible for distribution. Opponent SC Kalsdorf may rely on veteran captain Andreas Huber, known for his physical presence in the Regionalliga. Both squads have been training intensively ahead of the July 24 encounter at the Kalsdorf stadium.

What comes after the cup opener?

A victory would set up a second‑round cup tie in August against an as‑yet‑unknown 2. Liga opponent. Early progress would ease the schedule and give the coach more flexibility for squad rotation. A loss would force LASK to concentrate fully on the Bundesliga, where the title race is only one point away from the front‑runner.

LASK therefore approaches the upcoming cup match with mixed feelings: optimism from good form, but also the awareness that every game this season can decide the championship race.