Cynical and ruthless. These are the adjectives that best describe Rapid Vienna, who a week ago in Sweden laid the first brick in their quest to qualify for a historic Conference League semi-final. The Austrians, despite playing less well overall than Djurgarden, came out on top thanks to an unfortunate own goal by Finndell (0-1) midway through the second half. The Scandinavians’ final push was in vain, as they dominated possession (60% to 40%) and created more scoring chances.
Once again, it was the defensive solidity of Robert Klauss’ team that made the difference: Rapid have conceded very few goals in the cup, and the fact that they finished the group stage with the best defense (five goals conceded) is proof of that. The Green-Whites kept a clean sheet against Djurgarden after two hard-fought matches against Bosnian side Borac Banja Luka in the round of 16 (1-1 in Bosnia and 2-1 in Vienna): their goal also remained unbreached last Sunday in the heated derby against Austria Vienna, who were beaten 2-0 at the Allianz Stadion despite their cup exertions.
Two important comebacks for the Swedes
It was crucial for Rapid Vienna to get back on track in the league, as they are currently only fifth in the Austrian Bundesliga Championship Round. Djurgarden, on the other hand, failed to shake off the disappointment of their Allsvenskan match against Hammarby (2-1), suffering their second defeat of the tournament, which began only a few weeks ago.
Compared to a week ago, Rapid Vienna will be able to count on midfielder Sangare, but at the same time, the Biancoverde coach will have to do without the suspended Bolla. Two important recoveries for Djurgarden: Stensson but above all striker Nguen, who has scored three goals in this edition of the Conference League.
Odds comparison
The “Goal” bet is priced at 1.75 on Goldbet, Lottomatica, and Snai. The “Multigoal 1-3” bet is priced at 1.40 on Goldbet and Lottomatica and at 1.43 on Snai.
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Prediction
Unbeaten at home in the Conference League, Rapid Vienna will most likely manage to avoid defeat against Djurgarden in the return leg as well. Compared to the first leg, however, we believe that the Swedes will score at least one goal.
Probable line-ups for Rapid Vienna-Djurgarden
RAPID VIENNA (4-4-2): Hedl; Oswald, Cvektovic, Raux-Yao, Auer; Schaub, Grgic, Amane, Jansson; Beljo, Kara.
DJURGARDEN (4-3-3): Rinne; Staahl, Une, Danielson, Kosugi; Gulliksen, Finndell, Haarala; Zugelj, Nguen, Fallenius.
POSSIBLE RESULT: 1-1