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Liverpool – Villarreal. Laure James’ prediction
Thursday trading has only thrown up quite short odds for Liverpool to qualify, despite having a 1-0 deficit to overturn. The bookies probably have the same gut feeling as I do; which is Jurgen Klopp’s men will be Europa League finalists.
They fielded a dramatically under-strength starting XI – not least the youngest team in the club’s history – against Swansea and were beaten 3-1, so will be well-rested for the return leg at Anfield. Home support counts for a lot with Liverpool. Their fans travel well, yet I’m confident the atmosphere on Merseyside will roar them to victory.
Having said that, Villareal are no mugs. They’ve gone 12 games unbeaten in this competition and not for the first time; they’ve claimed the title on nine occasions with this record. Moreover, Marcelino’s men kept momentum after their late winner over Liverpool, with a 2-0 win over Valencia at the weekend.
It won’t be easy, yet I suspect winning the Europa League could trigger so much for Liverpool, helping to attract big names such as Mario Gotze in the summer, a Super Cup spot and of course a possible Champions League bye. The best I’ve found is 2.37 with Betfair.
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