Kazakhstan might not be considered a hotbed for footballing talent (let’s face it, it’s not); however, in recent years, the country has begun to make strides as far as clubs competing slightly better in Europe goes. Last season, Kairat Almaty made it through to the Europa League proper while both of the Kazakhs’ two entrants are still in the competition this time around. One of those entrants is Irtysh Pavlodar, who, having secured a comfortable 3-0 aggregate victory in the first round, will be in good spirits ahead of this match, even if it against one of Serbia’s most successful clubs of all time (Red Star Belgrade or Crvena Zvezda as they’re now commonly known).
The Serbian outfit also impressed during the first round although, as they record a 6-3 aggregate win, did so in contrasting style. Given that there was something to like about the way in which both progressed through the opening round, it’s no surprise that they’re closely matched in the betting. A case could probably be made for both and, therefore, neither really appeal at the prices. Having said that, there is a selection that stands out and that is ‘Both Teams to Score’ at even-money.
Irtysh are a fairly unknown quantity as far as European football goes, but they acquitted themselves well during the first round, scoring in both legs. In keeping back-to-back clean sheets in that two-legged tie, it could be said that they impressed defensively too. However, they probably would have conceded had their Bulgarian opponents had their shooting boots on. What’s more, in Crvena Zvezda, they face a much more potent side, one who had no trouble in scoring three goals both home and away in round one.
You’d definitely have to fancy the Serbians to come into this fixture and score – they made light work of scoring six goals in the last round and have scored in eight of their last ten matches on the road – but don’t expect them to do so whilst keeping a clean sheet at the other end. The fact that they conceded three goals against Maltese side Floriana in the away-leg during round one is worrying – or the opposite if you’re the punter seeking a ‘Both Teams to Score’ bet. On top of this, as they’ve conceded in seven of their last ten away from home, Crvena’s back-line hasn’t exactly been watertight on their travels.
All things considered, in a fixture that looks as though it could easily go either way on paper, both teams are fancied to get on the score-sheet at least once each as they fight for first-leg supremacy.
More Europa League tips can be found here.