This Thursday, we are treated to another exciting evening in Europe as we explore two compelling encounters in the UEFA Europa League, providing insights along with a betting perspective for each match.
Before we tuck in, let’s take a look at the outright markets: Tottenham Hotspur lead as favourites at 4/1, followed by Manchester United at 11/2. AS Roma sits in third at 17/2, while Athletic Bilbao enters the equation at 9/1. The rest of the field is listed at 12/1 or higher.
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FERENCVAROS v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR – Click here to bet
Ferencváros return to European action this Thursday as they host an in-form Tottenham Hotspur in what promises to be a crucial Europa League encounter. The Hungarians got off to a disappointing start in their campaign, suffering a 2-1 defeat to Anderlecht on Matchday 1, leaving them 26th in the standings. This poor start puts them in a precarious position as they now face the tough task of avoiding consecutive defeats, particularly with the recent form Spurs have displayed.
On the domestic front, however, Ferencváros could not be in better shape, having secured their sixth consecutive league victory with a commanding 3-0 win over Puskás Akadémia over the weekend. This perfect start sees them sitting comfortably at the top of the Hungarian league table with a flawless record of six wins from six. Yet, despite their dominance at home, they have struggled to translate that form onto the European stage, raising doubts about their chances of progressing beyond the group phase this season.
Unbeaten in their last four outings, Tottenham Hotspur have responded emphatically following their disappointing defeat in the London derby against Arsenal a few weeks ago. Ange Postecoglou’s side heads to Budapest aiming to secure their fifth consecutive win in all competitions, as well as back-to-back Europa League victories. Spurs kicked off their European campaign in commanding fashion, defeating Qarabag 3-0, despite being reduced to 10 men as early as the 8th minute.
Over the weekend, Spurs extended their impressive run of form with a commanding 3-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford. This win propelled them to 8th in the English Premier League standings, where they now have 3 wins, 1 draw, and 2 defeats. Notably, Spurs have been a formidable force in attack, averaging an impressive 3 goals per game over their last three matches across all competitions. They will look to maintain this lethal form as they head into Thursday’s clash away to Ferencváros.
Head-to-Head
This match will mark the inaugural meeting between the two sides when they face off on Thursday evening.
Betting
Ferencváros 13/2
Draw 9/2
Tottenham Hotspur 4/10
Verdict
Given the significant gap in class between the two teams, Spurs should have little trouble against Ferencváros this Thursday. However, at odds of 7/20, a chance is taken on the visitors to cover a handicap bet, especially considering they have successfully done so in their last three matches.
Suggested Bet: Handicap, -1.5 at 10/11
FC PORTO v MANCHESTER UNITED – Click here to bet
Looking to bounce back from their disappointing 3-2 defeat to Bodo/Glimt in Norway, FC Porto will have a chance to redeem themselves against a struggling Manchester United side at Estádio do Dragão this Thursday. Currently languishing in 24th position after their first week in Europe, Porto can ill afford a repeat performance if they hope to make strides in this competition.
Despite their setbacks in Europe, Porto regained their momentum on the domestic front last weekend, comfortably defeating Arouca 4-0 at home. This result marked their third consecutive win in the Portuguese League, positioning them 2nd behind Sporting Lisbon with 18 points from 7 matches. Porto has been particularly formidable at home, currently on a 14-match unbeaten streak, which includes 12 wins and 2 draws. They’ve won all four home games this season, conceding just once, offering Manchester United a glimpse of the challenge that awaits them this Thursday.
Under pressure, Erik Ten Hag certainly has his work cut out for him if he is to convince fans that he remains the right man for the job at Manchester United. With a series of disappointing results and an unfavourable fixture list ahead, his team must quickly return to winning ways to salvage this season. Manchester United began their European campaign with a frustrating 1-1 draw against FC Twente at Old Trafford, leaving them in 20th place in the standings after the first week. This Thursday, they travel to Porto for what promises to be a challenging outing for the Red Devils, especially considering how impressive the Portuguese club has been at home this season.
Desperate to regain some much-needed form, Manchester United enter Matchday two in Europe on the heels of a disappointing 3-0 defeat at home to Tottenham Hotspur over the weekend, leaving them languishing in 13th place in the English Premier League after week 6. Despite their recent struggles, the Red Devils have managed to remain unbeaten in their last two away matches, securing a draw and a win along the way—a lifeline they will hope to replicate in Portugal this Thursday.
Head-to-Head
The last meeting between these two sides occurred in the quarterfinals of this tournament back in 2009, where Manchester United secured a 1-0 victory away from home.
Betting
Fc Porto 39/20
Draw 5/2
Manchester United 29/20
Verdict
Struggling for goals, Manchester United will certainly face a tough challenge in Portugal. Despite being labelled the favourites heading into this fixture, I’m not convinced they will emerge victorious, especially considering Porto’s strong home performances and their impressive defensive record.
Suggested Bet: Double Chance And Totals, FC Porto/Draw And Under 3.5 at 11/10
Click here for all of this week’s European football action
Note: All prices correct at the time of writing but are subject to change
