Rapid secures 4-1 away win in Estonia after late surge

Rapid Vienna struggled in Estonia but ultimately secured a commanding 4-1 lead in their Europa Conference League qualifier against Paide Linnameeskond. The Austrian side took an early lead but then faltered, delivering a performance that left much to be desired. The match appeared to be heading for a more precarious result until late substitutions turned the tide.

Substitute Noah Haidara broke the deadlock in the 75th minute, injecting much-needed life into Rapid's attack. Shortly after, Antef Tsouna-Dahl added a fourth goal in the 84th minute, effectively sealing the victory and giving Rapid a significant advantage heading into the second leg. These late strikes masked an otherwise unconvincing display from the Viennese club.

Rapid had initially taken the lead through a goal from Guido Burgstaller in the 13th minute. However, Paide managed to equalize in the 27th minute with a penalty converted by Henri Anier. The Estonian side held firm for much of the second half, threatening to make Rapid's journey more difficult.

The return leg is scheduled for next Wednesday in Vienna, where Rapid will aim to confirm their progression to the next round despite their inconsistent performance in Tallinn.