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The Europa League qualifying rounds offer some of the most thrilling matches in European football, and the clash between Maribor and Botev Plovdiv is no exception.
With both teams eyeing a spot in the next stage, let’s dive into their form, team news, and match predictions.
Match Preview
Maribor’s Form and History
Maribor enters this match after finishing second in the Slovenian PrvaLiga last season.
They have struggled in recent European competitions, with their last appearance in the Europa League ending in a 3-0 defeat to HJK in the third qualifying round in August 2022.
Currently, Maribor is on a challenging streak, having lost five of their last seven away matches in UEFA competitions.
Their home form is also concerning, with no wins in their last eight European home games in regulation time.
Botev Plovdiv’s Form and History
Botev Plovdiv, on the other hand, is making its first appearance in UEFA competitions in seven years, thanks to their Bulgarian Cup victory last season.
They have a commendable record in the Europa League qualifiers, having advanced from the first qualifying round in their last five appearances.
Botev Plovdiv secured a 2-1 victory in the first leg against Maribor, thanks to goals from Anthony Ujah and Nikola Iliev.
They remain unbeaten in their last 11 home matches in European competition and have a solid away record with three wins, three draws, and two defeats in their last eight European away games.
Team News
Maribor
Maribor’s coach, Ante Simundza, is expected to stick with the back four of Pijus Sirvys, Lan Vidmar, Sven Karic, and Martin Milec.
Marko Bozic might start on the left flank, while Josip Ilicic, who returned from international duty, is set to play in the number 10 role behind Arnel Jakupovic.
Botev Plovdiv
For Botev Plovdiv, the fitness of Joonas Tamm remains a concern after he was forced off at half-time in the first leg.
If Tamm is unavailable, Siriky Diabate is likely to step in alongside Antoine Conte in central…
Source link : https://www.footballcritic.com/news/maribor-vs-botev-plovdiv-europa-league-qualifying-prediction/5403
Author : [email protected] (Jake Skudder)
Publish date : 2024-07-18 09:03:56
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