We certainly expected a different result from Besiktas in the Europa League. Maybe even elimination, because Shakhtar is still a very good team, but not a thrashing like that: six goals conceded in two games that never gave the Turks a chance to get back into it.
But there is still a lifeline to stay in Europe, and it’s called the Conference League, with a fairly easy game, at least on paper, against the Irish side St. Patrick’s, a team that is unlikely to stand in the way of Abraham and his teammates.
This is also because the Bianconeri need a change of gear immediately: in their last four games between the Cup and friendlies, they have suffered four defeats. Okay, it’s August, but there are also official matches, and it’s equally clear that if you don’t win, you never train with a smile on your face and doubts start to creep in. So it’s better to get some satisfaction on certain occasions, and this seems like the right night to do so. Yes, the match allows us to think about immediately putting qualification in the bag.h>
Odds comparison
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A Besiktas win is priced at 1.25 on Goldbet and Lottomatica.
A goal is valued at 1.70 on Goldbet and Lottomatica.
Prediction
In the games leading up to this date, Besiktas has always conceded goals. Will they do so again? It’s difficult, but not impossible. What is certain is that the Turks will win the match, with at least three goals scored in total.
Probable line-ups for St. Patrick-Besiktas
ST. PATRICKS (4-5-1): Anang; Sjoberg, Redmond, Grivosti, Breslin; Lennon, Leavy, Kavanagh, Forrester, Mulraney; Meila.
BESIKTAS (4-2-3-1): Gunok; Svennson, Paulista, Udokhai, Topcu; Tiknaz, Ylmaz; Joao Mario, Silva, Muci; Abraham.
POSSIBLE EXACT RESULT: 0-3