Home assault versus away streak: prediction for Shkëndija vs Bravo
NK Bravo
The second qualifying round clash of the Conference League between Shkëndija and Ljubljana's Bravo will take place on July 30. The Slovenian side won the first leg 2-1, so the hosts need to overturn a minimal deficit and take more risks up front.
Shkëndija: home form fuels hope for a comeback
In the first leg, Shkëndija opened the scoring but failed to hold on to their advantage, allowing the opposition to turn the match around. The 1-2 defeat wasn't fatal - the team remains in the tie and now has the chance to set things right on home soil.
After their setback in Ljubljana, the hosts bounced back by confidently defeating Skopje 3-0 in the domestic league. Shkëndija have won seven of their last ten official home matches, and have claimed three victories in their previous four games across all competitions.
Bravo: away streak confronts worrying defeat
Bravo head into the return leg with a narrow lead, but their latest outing was a huge disappointment. After their European win, the Slovenian side suffered a 0-3 home loss to Nafta, their first defeat in seven matches.
However, their away record gives the visitors reason for confidence. Bravo have won six consecutive away fixtures and will surely look to exploit the spaces that will open up due to Shkëndija's attacking intent.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Bravo won the first leg 2-1.
- There have been nine goals scored in Shkëndija's last three European matches.
- Bravo's last five away matches have averaged 2.8 goals per game.
Opponents won't park the bus: prediction for Shkëndija vs Bravo
Shkëndija are compelled to push forward and have a strong home record to back their hopes of turning the tie around. The hosts consistently create chances and, after their confident league win, should take to the pitch brimming with belief.
Bravo are unlikely to focus solely on defending, as their excellent away run has been powered by effective attacking play. With a narrow aggregate margin and the hosts needing to take risks, all the ingredients are there for another high-scoring encounter.