FC Kryvbas Kriviy Rih vs Viktoria Plzen Prediction & Betting Tips - Europa League

Prediction published on 08/08/2024, 05:38  by Sridhar in Europa League Predictions

Ukrainian side Kryvbas Kryvyi Rih will be up against the tide as they host the more experienced Viktoria Plzeň in the Europa League third qualifying round. The first leg match of this tie at the neutral venue of Košická futbalová arena in Košice, Slovakia, on Thursday comes with a prediction that favors the visitors.

The winner of this tie proceeds to the playoff round, where the Scottish side Heart of Midlothian awaits, while the losers will be transferred to the Conference League, where they play in the Main Path play-off round. It has been a phenomenal rise up the leagues for Kryvbas, who were in the fourth division as recently as the 2017-18 season. This is their debut appearance in Europe, as they look to extend their fairy tale growth. Playing their home games in Slovakia robs them of a slight advantage, but there are more pressing concerns for them.

Kryvbas have started their domestic league campaign with a 1-0 win on matchday one, but their pre-season form has been unimpressive. They lost one and drew three friendlies before the first match of the season, casting doubts over their chances. Plzeň are a well-known name in European circles, having played in different competitions over the years. They lost to Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League last year and are looking to make it to the group stages of the Europa League here. Unlike their hosts, Plzeň are three games into their new domestic season and are ahead in competitive preparation.

The visitors won two and drew one of their three competitive matches this season and will look at this match with an eye on taking a good lead back home for the second leg.