Tuesday 22/07/2014, 21:00, Champions League Qualifiers, Zalgiris vs Dinamo Zagreb

Zalgiris vs Dinamo Zagreb Preview

Dinamo Zagreb used to play in the Champions League groups and the Croats are anxiously waiting to return to the most important European competition. So far they seem to be on the right track, after winning the first leg of the qualifiers against Zalgiris. The Lithuanians were hoping for a draw on the road, followed by a victory in front of their fans but they went down by two goals to none and will now be fighting an uphill battle.

Zalgiris vs Dinamo Zagreb Odds

At Bet365

Zalgiris 5.00, Draw 4.20, Dinamo Zagreb 1.50

Zalgiris vs Dinamo Zagreb Tips

Dinamo Zagreb won the domestic championship without breaking a sweat last season and they are already in pole position after winning the opening round. As always, the vast majority of points were secured at home, but against fellow Croatian teams they had no problem in winning on the road.

Things are more different when it comes to European competitions, where Dinamo is one of the worst traveling teams and this applies to both Europa League and the Champions League. One of the reasons for why they never survived the group stage is that they found it impossible to win points on the road.

For the time being, they need not to worry, since the 2-0 victory over Zalgiris gives them plenty of leeway ahead of the second leg. The Lithuanians are not such a hard nut to crack and the friendly games played recently suggest that they have plenty of work to do upfront. Even so, the hosts will be throwing everything they've got at the Croatian side, knowing that they have nothing more to lose.

Nyuiadzi and Adi are expected to pair upfront once again, despite the fact that the Brazilian is making his debut for the team and failed to score in the first leg. Zalgiris has a potent midfield and if coach Zub instructs them to support the offensive rather than join the backline, the hosts should create enough scoring opportunities.

Key Facts

• It is time for the Croatian side to defend and past performance suggests that they are not great at doing this on the road, even against mediocre opponents.
• One player to watch for tonight is midfielder Will, who is Zalgiris' top scorer with eight goals so far

Zalgiris vs Dinamo Zagreb Prediction

Anything short of a convincing victory would send the home side packing, so the Lithuanians are expected to come out firing on all cylinders. Defeating Dinamo Zagreb on the road is not as difficult as it seems, but risk-averse punters would be better off taking some precautions. Zalgiris to win or Draw is priced at 2.50 by bookmakers, which represents tremendous value for this type of wager.

Bet: Zalgiris or Draw @ 2.50 with Bet365