Second leg of the Conference League: can Braga live up to their favorite status? Preview of the clash against Dinamo Minsk, August 13
On Thursday, August 13, the neutral ground of Beroe Stadium in the Bulgarian city of Stara Zagora will host the kickoff of the second leg in the UEFA Conference League’s third qualifying round. In what is technically their home fixture, Dinamo Minsk will take on Portugal’s Braga. This match carries immense tournament and financial stakes for both sides, as the aggregate winner will secure a place in the playoff round, where they’ll face the victor of the Beitar vs Austria tie.
The first encounter, played on August 6 at Braga Municipal in Portugal, ended with a narrow 1-0 victory for the hosts. The only—and decisive—goal came right before halftime, as Braga’s captain and talisman Ricardo Horta coolly converted a penalty in the 45th minute. Despite Braga’s overwhelming control throughout the match, the Belarusian side showcased a disciplined and compact defensive block, managing to keep the deficit to a minimum until the final whistle. Still, the goalless defeat means Dinamo Minsk now faces the daunting task of chasing the scoreline, while the Arsenalistas arrive in Bulgaria with a comfortable lead and the freedom to dictate tactical terms.
The form and tactical options of the nominal hosts appear rather limited heading into the return leg. Dinamo Minsk has struggled to build positional attacks against high-caliber opposition, relying mostly on rare counterattacks, physical duels, and set-piece routines. If they are to overturn the deficit, they’ll be forced to open up their defensive lines and push higher with their pressing, which could leave dangerous gaps in their own half. On the other hand, Braga boasts far greater international experience, technical quality, and squad depth. The Portuguese side excels at dictating the tempo through short passing, keeping the opponent chasing shadows, and, if needed, can slice open defenses in a flash with their pacey wide forwards.
The tactical script for the return fixture seems clear from the opening minutes. Dinamo Minsk will try to apply early pressure and snatch a quick goal, but Braga’s composure should enable them to weather the initial storm. Gradually, Braga is likely to seize full control of possession, slow down the game, and repeatedly catch their opponents out on the break as Minsk pushes forward. Superior class, freshness, and squad options should allow the Portuguese side to finish the job in the second half.
Prediction
I expect both sides to deliver attacking football: we’re in for an entertaining and open match. My prediction: over 2.5 goals at 1.7
