Tournament: UEFA Europa League Qualification
Venue: Jan Breydel Stadion (Bruges)
Game Time: August 15, 2024, 14:00
In the second leg of the UEFA Europa League qualifying semifinals, Cercle Brugge faces a daunting task as they host Molde on August 15, 2024. After a heavy 3-0 defeat in the first leg in Norway, Cercle Brugge will need nothing short of a miracle to overturn the deficit and progress to the final qualifying round. Molde, on the other hand, will aim to manage their lead and secure their place in the next round.
Key Statistics and Trends
Cercle Brugge:
- Recent Form: Cercle Brugge has lost 3 of their last 5 matches.
- First Half Performance: Cercle Brugge wins the first half in 25% of their matches.
- European Struggles: Their Europa League debut was respectable, but they struggled heavily in the first leg against Molde.
Molde:
- Recent Form: Molde has won their last 2 matches.
- First Half Performance: Molde wins the first half in 52% of their matches.
- European Success: Molde had a solid performance in the first leg, securing a comfortable 3-0 victory at home.
Team Analysis
Cercle Brugge: Cercle Brugge had a mixed start to the season. Despite a decent European debut against Kilmarnock, their performance in the Belgian league has been below par. Their heavy defeat in Norway has left them with a mountain to climb in the second leg. The team is dealing with injuries to key players like De Wilde and Diakité, which could further hinder their chances of mounting a comeback.
Molde: Molde is coming off a strong performance both domestically and in Europe. Their 3-0 victory in the first leg has put them in a commanding position to advance. With no major injury concerns, Molde is expected to field a strong lineup to ensure they manage their lead effectively. Their recent form and European experience give them a significant advantage going into this match.
Team News
Cercle Brugge:
- Injuries: De Wilde and Diakité are out, while Efekele is doubtful.
Molde:
- Injuries: No significant injury concerns.
Possible Starting Lineups
Cercle Brugge (Possible lineup):
- Warleson – Nazinho, Utkus, Daland, Ravic – Francis, Van der Bruggen, Olaigbe, Somers, Ouattara – Denkey
Molde (Possible lineup):
- Poshadala – Lund, Hagelskjaer, Eivann – Fjortoft, Breivik, Dæhli, Kosa, Stenevik – Eikrem, Eriksen
Head-to-Head Matches
This is the first time these two clubs have met in European competition.
Free Prediction for the Match: Cercle Brugge vs Molde
Given the scenario, Cercle Brugge might push for a comeback, but Molde’s strong position and form make it likely that this match will see several goals. The recommended bet is on "over 2.5 goals" (odds – 1.64).
Prediction: Over 2.5 Goals (odds: 1.64).
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