Linfield FC vs Vmfd Zalgiris Prediction & Betting Tips - Champions League

Prediction published on 11/07/2021, 07:20  by Nived in Champions League Predictions

Lithuanian giants FK Zalgiris aim to secure their safe passage into the second round of the Champions League qualifying rounds when they lock horns with Northern Irish champions Linfield FC. Following their 3-1 triumph in the first leg clash, Zalgiris are in the driving seat and will look to get the job done away from home.

Understandably, Linfield are still only getting into shape ahead of the upcoming domestic season compared to Zalgiris, who are leading the Lithuanian top-flight after 19 games of the ongoing 2021 campaign. During the first leg, Zalgiris raced to a 2-0 advantage at the break, thanks to goals from Hugo Videmont and Tomislav Kis. Shortly after the restart, Linfield pulled one back through Christy Manzinga to breathe new life into the game.

However, an unfortunate own goal from Chris Johns then extinguished the hopes of a comeback. Despite not getting the result they wanted, Linfield have a crucial own goal to hold onto in the contest and will be eyeing making the best use of home advantage in the return leg at Windsor Park in Belfast.

Linfield need an early goal to try and turn the tie around and will hope lady luck can favour Manzinga, unlike in the away leg, where he rattled the crossbar with his effort early on.