Thursday 24/07/2014, 21:00, Europa League Qualifiers, Hapoel Tel Aviv vs Astana

Hapoel Tel Aviv vs Astana Preview

After the lopsided defeat suffered at the hands of Astana in the first leg of the Europa League Qualifiers, Hapoel Tel Aviv has only theoretical chances to advance to the next stage. They need to score 3 goals without allowing one just to push the match into overtime and they have to do with without home pitch advantage. The match will be played in Cyprus, because Tel Aviv is currently a war zone, which means that they won't have any supporters cheering for them.

Hapoel Tel Aviv vs Astana Odds

At Bet-at-home

Hapoel Tel Aviv 2.40, Draw 3.25, Astana 2.60

Hapoel Tel Aviv vs Astana Tips

The Israelis had one of the worst games in 2014 one week ago when they traveled to Kazakhstan for a match against the reigning champions. To make matters worse, they lost defender Dgani after only 15 min. of play, which left them with a big hole in their defenses.
The hosts didn't fail to capitalize on this opportunity and pressed the visiting side, until they finally allowed a goal. Things took a turn from bad to worse in the second half, when Astana was also awarded a penalty kick and by the time the final whistle was blown, they had scored three goals already.

Basically all that the team from Kazakhstan needs to do tonight is to avoid a complete meltdown, because a draw or even a narrow margin defeat will allow them to advance to the next stage. It comes as no surprise that coach Stoliov would only use two strikers in the second leg, while fortifying the backline.

Speaking of which, Hapoel Tel Aviv has a big problem ahead of this game, due to the fact that they only have four quality defenders and one of them is serving a two-game suspension. They need to take more chances upfront but since they can't rely on a rock-solid defense, the Israelis will be vulnerable to counterattacks.

Key Facts

• Damari is the most prolific scorer for Hapoel Tel Aviv with 26 goals in 35 matches, but he didn't play in the first leg and is uncertain for tonight.
• The Israelis allowed three goals in the first leg because their backline was incomplete and they are unlikely to keep a clean sheet without their prized defender.

Hapoel Tel Aviv vs Astana Prediction

There is tremendous value in the odds offered by bookmakers for the visiting team to prevail, but risk-averse punters have another option. By betting on Astana to win with the cover of an Asian handicap, punters would have their stakes returned if the game ends undecided.

Bet: Astana Draw no Bet @ 1.90 with Bet-at-home