Elfsborg vs Rijeka Prediction: Elfsborg are favored to win 2-1 against Rijeka, likely advancing with a 3-2 aggregate score in this Europa League qualifier.
The UEFA Europa League qualification continues as Swedish side IF Elfsborg host Croatian outfit HNK Rijeka in the second leg of their third-round qualifier. With the tie delicately poised after a 1-1 draw in Croatia, both teams will be eager to secure progression to the playoff round.
Match Preview
Elfsborg enter this crucial home fixture with momentum on their side. The Swedish club has been in fine form domestically, currently sitting fifth in the Allsvenskan. Their recent 2-1 victory over GAIS showcased their resilience and attacking prowess.
Rijeka, on the other hand, come into this match after a goalless draw against Varaždin in the Croatian HNL. While they’ve struggled for consistency lately, their away form has been a concern, with no wins in their last six road trips.
The first leg in Croatia saw Elfsborg take an early lead through Jalal Abdullai, only for Rijeka to equalize before halftime. The Swedish side finished the match with ten men but held on for a valuable draw.
Predicted Elfsborg vs Rijeka Lineups and Formation
Elfsborg Lineup (3-4-3): Pettersson; Henriksson, Holmén, Yegbe; B. Zeneli, Hedlund, Ouma, Hult; Baidoo, A. Zeneli, Qasem
Manager Oscar Hiljemark is likely to stick with the 3-4-3 formation that has served Elfsborg well this season. The attacking trio of Arber Zeneli, Michael Baidoo, and Ahmed Qasem will be crucial in breaking down Rijeka’s defense.
Rijeka Lineup (4-1-4-1): Zlomislić; Galešić, Smolčić, Radeljić, Čabraja; Hodža; Pašalić, Petrovič, Fruk, Janković; Ivanović
Rijeka’s new manager Radomir Đalović may opt for a more defensive 4-1-4-1 setup away from home. The experienced Veldin Hodža will be key in shielding the back four, while Franjo Ivanović leads the line up front.
Injured and Unavailable Players
Here’s a list of players who are injured or unavailable for the Elfsborg vs Rijeka match:
Jalal Abdullai (Elfsborg)
Status: Suspended
Reason: Red card in the first leg
Impact: Key absence, scored Elfsborg’s goal in the first leg
Bruno Goda (Rijeka)
Status: Doubtful
Reason: Recovering from a leg injury
Impact: Potential absence in defense
Martin Zlomislic (Rijeka)
Status: Questionable
Reason: Recent leg injury
Impact: May affect goalkeeping options if unavailable
Where to Watch Live?
The match kicks off at 17:00 UTC at the Borås Arena in Boras, Sweden. While no specific TV channels are listed for the United States, fans may be able to stream the game through UEFA’s official platforms or club websites.
Elfsborg vs Rijeka Live Stream and TV Schedule
- Sweden: Sport Bladet Play
Who Will Win?
This fixture is finely balanced, but Elfsborg’s strong home record and recent form make them slight favorites. The Swedish side has won 82% of their matches when given similar odds by bookmakers.
Elfsborg vs Rijeka Prediction is Elfsborg 2-1 HNK Rijeka (Elfsborg to advance 3-2 on aggregate)
Key Stats and Form
- Elfsborg are unbeaten in their last 3 matches
- Rijeka have failed to win in their last 6 away games
- Elfsborg have scored in 6 of their last 7 matches
- Rijeka have kept clean sheets in 2 of their last 3 games
Data and Stats
- Elfsborg’s Chance of Winning: 52.01%
- Rijeka’s Chance of Winning: 24.35%
- Chance of Draw: 23.64%
- Both Teams to Score Probability: 55.48%
- Over 2.5 Goals Probability: 54.43%
- Most Likely Scoreline for Elfsborg Win: 1-0 (9.99% probability)
- Most Likely Scoreline for Rijeka Win: 0-1 (6.41% probability)
- Most Likely Draw Scoreline: 1-1 (11.15% probability)
Head-to-Head
The 1-1 draw in the first leg was the first-ever meeting between these two sides.
Current Standings
Swedish Allsvenskan (Elfsborg)
- Malmo FF – 41 pts
- Djurgardens IF – 35 pts
- Hammarby – 32 pts
- Mjallby AIF – 29 pts
- IF Elfsborg – 28 pts
Croatian HNL (Rijeka)
3rd Position in HNL table with 4 points.
Latest News
- Elfsborg’s new manager Oscar Hiljemark has overseen 8 wins in 10 matches since taking charge in June.
- Rijeka recently appointed Radomir Đalović as their new head coach, replacing Željko Sopić.
- The winner of this tie will advance to the Europa League playoff round, with the loser dropping into the Europa Conference League playoffs.
As both teams aim for European group stage football, this match promises to be a tightly contested affair. Elfsborg’s home advantage could prove crucial, but Rijeka’s experience in continental competitions means they cannot be underestimated.
FAQs
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