Preview: Austria Lustenau Hosts Rapid Wien II in 2. Liga Clash

VIENNA (Interstat) — A pivotal mid-table Austrian 2. Liga matchup is set for Friday as Austria Lustenau hosts Rapid Wien II at Planet Pure Stadion.

The game, scheduled for April 17, 2026, is a rematch of an October encounter won by Lustenau 2-1 on the road. Statistical projections from Interstat forecast a repeat of that scoreline, favoring the hosts.

Austria Lustenau (10-11-6) enters with momentum from a decisive 3-0 victory over third-place St. Pölten last Friday. That win snapped a brief two-game winless streak that included a 3-1 loss to Young Violets Austria Wien and a 1-1 draw with FC Flyeralarm Admira. Their home form has been strong, with clean-sheet wins in their last two at the Planet Pure Stadion.

Rapid Wien II (9-9-9) looks to rebound from a disappointing 4-1 home defeat to relegation-threatened Wels last time out. That result halted a promising two-game winning streak for the reserve side, which had posted consecutive shutout victories over Kapfenberger SV and FC Flyeralarm Admira. Their season has been marked by inconsistency, with a notable 4-0 loss to St. Pölten in March but also a key draw with league-leader Austria Salzburg.

The head-to-head history gives Lustenau a psychological edge. Their come-from-behind 2-1 victory in Vienna last October, achieved with two second-half goals, will be fresh in the memory of both squads.

For Lustenau, the match represents a chance to solidify their position and build on their impressive result against St. Pölten. Key to their success will be maintaining defensive solidity, having conceded just twice in their last four home matches.

Rapid Wien II must address a defense that conceded four goals in its last outing after a period of resilience. Finding offensive rhythm early will be crucial for the visitors to upset the projection.

Following this contest, Lustenau will prepare for a trip to Aust Klagenfurt on April 24. Rapid Wien II’s next fixture is a visit from First Vienna on May 8.

Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. local time (1830 GMT) in Lustenau.