AEK Athens vs LASK opens both clubs’ UEFA Champions League 2026/27 league-phase campaigns on Tuesday, 8 September 2026. The Matchday 1 fixture kicks off at 7:45 PM EAT at the AEK Arena in Athens, where AEK return to the competition proper for the first time since 2018/19 and LASK make their debut at this stage.
Both teams reached the league phase through the play-offs. AEK eliminated Levski Sofia 4-0 on aggregate, while LASK produced a dramatic turnaround against Celtic to advance 5-4 on aggregate. For the wider competition picture, see our Champions League 2026/27 draw and league-phase guide.
AEK Athens vs LASK Match Details
| Match detail | Information |
| Fixture | AEK Athens vs LASK |
| Competition | UEFA Champions League 2026/27 |
| Stage | League phase – Matchday 1 |
| Date | Tuesday, 8 September 2026 |
| Kick-off | 7:45 PM EAT / 16:45 UTC |
| Venue | AEK Arena, Athens |
| Referee | Luis Godinho (Portugal) |
This is the first competitive meeting between AEK Athens and LASK. UEFA also confirms that LASK are facing Greek opposition for the first time in European competition.
AEK Athens vs LASK Team News and Possible Lineups
AEK Athens team news
UEFA lists no confirmed AEK Athens absentees or doubts ahead of Matchday 1. Marko Nikolic therefore has a strong group available, with Thomas Strakosha, Răzvan Marin, Lovro Majer, Luka Jović and Barnabás Varga among the main names in contention.
UEFA possible XI: Strakosha; Rota, Moukoudi, Relvas, Pilios; Majer, Marin, Vitális, Gaćinović; Varga, Jović.
LASK team news
LASK have more uncertainty in attack. UEFA lists Sasa Kalajdžić as unavailable on fitness grounds, while Samuel Adeniran is doubtful with a facial issue. That could leave Moses Usor and Christoph Lang with greater responsibility in the final third.
UEFA possible XI: Jungwirth; Mbuyamba, Tornich, Andrade; Jørgensen, Ljubičić, Bogarde, Horvath, Bello; Usor, Lang.
Possible lineups can change before kick-off. For the confirmed starting XIs, substitutes and formations once they are announced, follow SP Score.
AEK Athens vs LASK Head-to-Head and Current Form
AEK Athens and LASK have never met in a competitive fixture, so there is no direct H2H record to separate them. AEK are, however, unbeaten in their last three matches against Austrian clubs in UEFA competition, with one win and two draws.
AEK arrive in strong home form. They followed the 4-0 Champions League play-off win over Levski Sofia with a 5-0 domestic victory over Aris, and they have won seven of their last eight competitive home matches. Their ability to start quickly has also stood out, with AEK scoring first in six of their seven matches this season.
LASK have also started the campaign with plenty of goals. Their comeback against Celtic was followed by further domestic wins, including a 6-1 cup victory over Deutschlandsberger. The Austrian side have won eight of their opening nine competitive matches, although their European away record remains a major test heading into Athens.
READ ALSO: UCL Play-Offs: 32 Champions League League Phase Teams Confirmed
Key Players to Watch in AEK Athens vs LASK
Barnabás Varga gives AEK a proven penalty-area threat. He scored twice during the Champions League play-off round and has been a consistent source of goals in European competition. Luka Jović offers another central attacking option, while Răzvan Marin can influence the game from midfield.
For LASK, Moses Usor brings pace and direct running, while Christoph Lang can operate between midfield and attack. If Adeniran is not cleared to play, LASK will need those players to carry more of the attacking load against an AEK side that kept clean sheets in both legs of the play-off against Levski Sofia.
AEK Athens vs LASK Odds and Live Match Updates on SportPesa Kenya
AEK Athens vs LASK is listed in our UEFA Champions League markets on SportPesa Kenya. Depending on availability, the fixture can include markets such as 3 Way, Double Chance, Over/Under 2.5 and Both Teams to Score. Check the current prices on SportPesa before making your selection because odds can change before kick-off.
Once the match begins, use SP Score for the live score, match minute, goals, cards, substitutions, confirmed lineups and changing match statistics. Our SportPesa Kenya football hub also connects you to the wider Champions League and football coverage. 18+ only. Bet responsibly.
FAQs About AEK Athens vs LASK
When is AEK Athens vs LASK?
AEK Athens vs LASK is scheduled for Tuesday, 8 September 2026 in UEFA Champions League Matchday 1.
What time is AEK Athens vs LASK in Kenya?
Kick-off is at 7:45 PM East Africa Time.
Where is AEK Athens vs LASK being played?
The match will be played at the AEK Arena in Athens, Greece.
Have AEK Athens and LASK played before?
No. UEFA confirms that this is the first competitive meeting between AEK Athens and LASK.
Where can I follow AEK Athens vs LASK live?
Use SP Score for confirmed lineups, the live score, match events and changing statistics once the game begins.
Where can I find AEK Athens vs LASK odds?
The fixture is available in the UEFA Champions League section on SportPesa Kenya. Check the market page for the latest available odds and selections.
READ ALSO: Champions League Draw 2026/27: Arsenal vs Real Madrid, Man City vs Barcelona & League Phase Guide
Conclusion
AEK Athens vs LASK brings together a returning Champions League side and a club making its debut in the competition proper. AEK enter Matchday 1 with strong home form, while LASK arrive after an impressive qualifying run and a high-scoring start to the season. With kick-off set for 7:45 PM EAT at the AEK Arena, the confirmed lineups and live match events will be available on SP Score as the game develops.
