Welsh side under pressure, Estonians dangerous away: prediction for New Saints vs Flora
The second qualifying round clash of the Europa Conference League between The New Saints and Tallinn's Flora will take place on July 30 at Park Hall Stadium. The Estonian club clinched a 1-0 victory in the first leg, meaning the hosts must win to keep their hopes of advancing to the next stage alive.
New Saints: losing streak ramps up the pressure
The Welsh club have had a rough start to their European campaign. After suffering two defeats to Sabah with an aggregate score of 1-4, the team also fell short against Flora, extending their losing run in Europe to three matches.
Their overall form is also a concern: The New Saints have failed to win four of their last five games and have lost three times in that span. While home advantage should help them play more proactively, three defeats in their last four home matches mean the Welsh side can hardly be considered clear favourites.
Flora: impressive away form inspires confidence
Flora grabbed a slender lead thanks to Remo Valdmetz's goal in the 31st minute of the first leg. The Estonian side expertly protected their advantage and can now play from a solid defensive setup, knowing that even a draw will see them through.
The visitors' main weapon remains their outstanding away form. Flora are unbeaten in nine consecutive away matches, winning eight of them - including victories over Kuressaare and Levadia, as well as a 2-2 draw with Iberia 1999.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Flora won the first leg 1-0.
- The New Saints have lost their last three European matches.
- Flora are unbeaten in nine straight away games, winning eight of them.
The visitors can hold their advantage: prediction for New Saints vs Flora
The New Saints will have to push forward, but their current form and inconsistent home performances make that a risky proposition. The hosts are likely to enjoy more possession, but it's far from certain they'll be able to turn that into enough clear chances.
Flora are in a stronger position and can patiently wait for their opponents to make mistakes. Given the Estonians’ strong away run and the Welsh side’s three straight European defeats, backing the visitors looks like the most reliable bet.
