Riga side need an aggressive comeback: prediction for RFS vs Jablonec
The second leg of the UEFA Conference League third qualifying round between RFS and Jablonec is set for August 13, 2026, in Riga. The first clash in the Czech Republic ended in a 2-0 victory for Jablonec, so the hosts must overturn a two-goal deficit and come out with much more aggression right from the start.
RFS: Home streak keeps comeback hopes alive
The defeat in the Czech Republic was RFS's first serious setback in this European campaign. Previously, the Latvian club had beaten Glentoran twice - 2-1 and 2-0 - then advanced past Vestri thanks to a 4-1 home win and a 1-1 away draw.
After the Jablonec loss, RFS quickly regained confidence with a resounding 6-1 league win over Grobina. The home field factor is crucial: RFS are unbeaten in 12 straight home matches, with more than 2.5 goals scored in eight of those games.
Jablonec: In great form but struggling on the road
Jablonec head into the return leg riding a five-match winning streak across all competitions. The Czechs have beaten Varazdin 2-0, Sigma 2-1, Pardubice 2-0, RFS 2-0, and Slovacko 1-0, conceding just once in that span.
However, their away record tells a different story: they've lost six of their last seven matches on the road. With a two-goal cushion, Jablonec can afford to play more cautiously, but containing RFS's energetic start will be a real test for their defense.
Key facts and head-to-head
- The first match ended with a 2-0 win for Jablonec.
- RFS are unbeaten in their last 12 home games.
- Jablonec have lost six of their last seven away fixtures.
Hosts must go all out: prediction for RFS vs Jablonec
There's no room for caution for RFS: trailing by two goals, they need to ramp up the tempo and keep the pressure on the visitors' penalty area. With their impressive home run and a recent league thrashing, the hosts look capable of at least avoiding defeat in this return leg.
Jablonec are in fine form and will certainly have their chances on the break. This match is set up for a high-scoring affair where the home side should avoid defeat, but the Czech visitors will remain a threat up front.
