AEK Athens began their UEFA Champions League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over LASK on Tuesday, with Răzvan Marin’s first-half free-kick proving decisive.
The Romanian midfielder broke the deadlock in the 21st minute with a well-struck right-footed effort from a wide position, giving AEK a lead they successfully protected until the final whistle.
Despite LASK enjoying slightly more possession overall, AEK looked more dangerous in attack and created the clearer opportunities throughout the encounter.
The Greek side registered 18 shots compared with LASK’s 11 and recorded an expected goals figure of 1.59 against 0.81 for the visitors.
AEK also had 25 touches inside LASK’s penalty area, 11 more than their opponents, while their superior dribbling and crossing helped them maintain pressure in the final third.
Marin’s goal came from a free-kick that initially appeared to offer little scoring potential, but his execution proved exceptional.
The strike found the upper-right corner and gave LASK goalkeeper Lukas Jungwirth little chance.
AEK had opportunities to extend their advantage, with Barnabás Varga and Luka Jović both coming close, but the hosts were unable to add a second goal.
Defensively, AEK remained composed, particularly after the interval when LASK increased their share of possession.
Goalkeeper Alberto Brignoli made three saves and provided assurance behind a defence that recorded 14 interceptions and 24 clearances.
Lazaros Rota was particularly influential from the right side, contributing defensively while also helping AEK progress the ball.
Harold Moukoudi and Filipe Relvas were also effective in dealing with LASK’s aerial threat.
LASK showed plenty of determination as they searched for an equaliser, winning 22 tackles compared with AEK’s 16.
However, their attacking play lacked the final touch needed to turn possession into clear-cut chances.
Their biggest weakness was their delivery from wide areas, as none of their 15 attempted crosses found a teammate.
Captain Sascha Horvath provided some attacking energy and created opportunities, but AEK consistently managed to close down dangerous areas and prevent LASK from building sustained momentum.
Marin was the standout performer for AEK, not only because of his winning goal but also because of his influence in midfield.
He completed 43 of his 49 passes, supplied five key passes and delivered four accurate crosses from five attempts.
He also won eight duels and contributed defensively with tackles, clearances and recoveries.
AEK ultimately held on for a valuable victory, securing three points from an encounter in which their greater attacking efficiency and superior set-piece execution made the difference.
