Europa League, the group stage of the second continental event begins: predictions on the other matches.
After a scintillating first day of the Champions League group stage, everything is set for the official debut of the other two UEFA competitions. As for the Europa League, the continent’s second most important event, there are many matches that offer interesting food for thought. In this post we will limit ourselves to analysing matches between those teams not participating in the five major European leagues (Premier League, Serie A, Ligue 1, La Liga and Bundesliga).
Particularly intriguing is the challenge between the Dutch Psv Eindhoven and the Norwegians Bodo/Glimt, two teams drawn in Arsenal’s group. And who, in all likelihood, will be competing for second place behind the Gunners, favourites not only for first place in Group A but also to win the cup. These are two sides that came away with broken bones from the recent Champions League play-offs, being eliminated by Rangers and Dinamo Zagreb respectively. A disappointment that seems to have had major repercussions, as both lost their last league match.
The Dutch should have an edge because of the home factor, but they remain inconsistent and not very solid in their own half. It will be an open result, but there will be no lack of spectacle, taking into account the unscrupulousness of Bodo, who will play it without excessive reverential fears. In Group B, on the other hand, Fenerbahçe have a chance to avenge their elimination in the Champions League qualifying rounds by beating Dinamo Kiev at home: the Ukrainians prevailed in extra time in July, but the Turks are now on the rise and could win the game in a one-goal game.
The predictions for the other matches
Zeidan of Malmo
The group D, in which, apart from Union Berlin and Saint-Gilloise, there are also Malmo and Braga, looks very balanced. The Portuguese have a lot of experience in this competition and, although they did not get off to a great start in the Primeira Liga, they should return from the Swedish trip with a positive result. Omonia Nicosia will also most likely avoid defeat against Sheriff Tiraspol: The Transnistrian team is not at the level of last year, when they finished third in the Champions League group behind Real Madrid and Inter Milan, and will risk something in the Cypriot capital.
Sturm Graz-Midtjylland will be followed with interest by the fans of Lazio, who will simultaneously face Feyenoord at the Stadio Olimpico. At the moment the Austrians are more on the ball, but Midtjylland should manage to score at least one goal. There will be great balance in the match between Ferencvaros and Trabzonspor, two other teams who have to get over the disappointment of not qualifying for the Champions League.
Europa League: likely winners
- Fenerbahçe-Dinamo Kiev, 18:45)
- Braga or draw (in Malmo-Braga, 18:45)
- Omonia Nicosia or draw (in Omonia Nicosia-Sheriff Tiraspol, 21:00)
- Trabzonspor or a draw (in Ferencvaros-Trabzonspor, 21:00)
Matches with at least one goal per team
- PSV Eindhoven-Bodo/Glimt, 18:45
- Fenerbahçe-Dinamo Kiev, 18:45
- Sturm Graz-Midtjylland, 21:00
Europa League: the match with at least three goals in total
- PSV Eindhoven-Bodo/Glimt, 6.45pm
