A test of resilience. Prediction for the match Liepaja vs Austria Vienna
In the second qualifying round of the Conference League, Liepaja and Austria Vienna will go head-to-head. The match is set for Thursday, July 23, with kick-off at 17:00 Central European Time. I’m offering a bet on the winner of this clash.
- See also: UEFA Conference League qualification match: Shelbourne vs Nõmme Kalju, game preview for July 23
H2H and statistical facts
- Liepaja have won six of their last seven home games.
- Austria Vienna have not suffered a single defeat in their summer friendlies: two draws and two wins.
- These teams have never faced each other before.
Liepaja earned their place in European competition thanks to a strong campaign in last season’s Latvian championship, finishing among the medalists. For the club, this is another chance to make their mark on the international stage, though in recent years, Latvian teams have rarely managed to progress deep into European tournaments.
The offseason was spent amid the ongoing Latvian league, so it’s hard to speak of full-scale preparation. Liepaja are in competitive rhythm, regularly playing official domestic matches. This could be a key advantage over their opponent, who are just starting their new season.
In the first qualifying round of the Conference League, the Latvian side faced Montenegro’s Decic. Two narrow wins (1-0 and 2-1) secured their ticket to the second qualifying round, where a much tougher opponent awaits.
Liepaja’s main asset remains their solid physical condition. The team has already hit their stride and played two intense European fixtures. However, the level of their next opponent is significantly higher, so the Latvians will have to play with maximum discipline, especially in defense.
Austria Vienna return to European competition after a successful last season in the Austrian Bundesliga, where they finished in the upper half of the table and secured a Conference League qualifying spot. For one of Austria’s most decorated clubs, reaching the main stage of a European tournament remains a top priority this season.
The summer preparations included a series of friendlies against fairly strong opposition. The coaching staff used these matches to search for the best combinations and integrate new signings. Despite a few setbacks, the team gradually found their form ahead of the official campaign.
Unlike Liepaja, the Austrian side begin their European journey straight from the second qualifying round. Their higher ranking allowed them to skip the opening stage, but the lack of competitive fixtures could be felt in the early stages of this match, especially against a rival who’s already been through a tough two-legged tie.
Still, when it comes to squad depth and international experience, Austria Vienna are clear favorites. The Vienna club are regulars in European competitions, and their squad value far exceeds what the Latvian side can offer. If the visitors manage to impose their tempo early, they should control the flow of the game.
What’s the bet?
Liepaja will surely try to capitalize on their home advantage and match sharpness, but Austria Vienna’s squad quality stands out. The Austrian club outclasses their opponents in virtually every key area—squad depth, individual skill, and European experience. If the hosts manage to keep the tie alive for the return leg, that would already be a success. I’m backing the visitors to win with a -1 goal handicap.
