Tuesday 22/07/2014, 21:00, Champions League Qualifiers, TNS vs Slovan Bratislava

TNS vs Slovan Bratislava Preview

Slovan Bratislava failed to meet expectations in the first leg of the Champions League qualifiers, but somehow they got away with a narrow margin victory. Their opponents were not expected to pose any problems and the only concern was to avoid a lopsided defeat that would prove impossible to offset back in Wales. The hosts now need to score at least twice while keeping a clean sheet, something that TNS is unlikely to accomplish against a superior opponent.

TNS vs Slovan Bratislava Odds

At Bet365

TNS 4.00, Draw 3.60, Slovan Bratislava 1.75

TNS vs Slovan Bratislava Tips

The New Saints had a full week to prepare for this match as all domestic championship games were postponed, which means that they can field the same starting formation. There are no injury concerns and the fact that they only conceded one goal on the road can be regarded as an accomplishment.

What the hosts need to do tonight is to take more chances, namely to start with two strikers and it is obvious that Draper and Darlington will feature in the starting formation. They scored a combined nine goals last season and are the younger of the five strikers that at least in theory, coach Darlington could use

Slovan Bratislava enjoyed the same preferential treatment in the Slovakian championship, as the Super Cup match was postponed. The players got seven days to rest and prepare for the second leg of the qualifiers, one that they expect to win on the road, rather than dwelling on their relative success.

Slovakian fans were rather disappointed with the narrow margin victory over the New Saints, a team that never made the groups of a European competition. Coach Straka played rather prudent football, using just two strikers and his decision of sending him veterans Fort and Halenar was not too inspired. The 31-year-olds were unable to score and the winning goal came from a defender, which prompted the replacement of both strikers in the second half.

Key Facts

• Despite playing on the road, Slovan Bratislava will use a more aggressive starting formation than in the opening-round and won't settle for a draw in Wales.
• Home pitch advantage means nothing on a stadium with just 2000 seats, so the visitors don't need to worry about crushing pressure.

TNS vs Slovan Bratislava Prediction

Slovan Bratislava failed to secure qualification in the first leg, but they are very likely to double down on that victory by also winning on the road. This time, a narrow margin victory would be more than enough for punters willing to back the visitors at full stakes, because the odds stand at 1.75 with Bet365.

Bet: Slovan Bratislava @ 1.75 with Bet365