Panathinaikos vs Braga predictions ahead of Tuesday’s second leg of their Champions League play-off affair. The Portuguese side hold a 2-1 advantage, but this travel to Greece looks tricky with the hosts that are usually able to deliver in front of their fans. Read on for our free betting tips and predictions.
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Match Live Tuesday, 29th August at 8:00 pm In:
Panathinaikos vs Braga Predictions
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A Battle for European Supremacy
Key Stats
– Ricardo Horta has provided four assists in the Champions League qualifying rounds but remains goalless.
– Panathinaikos maintained an astounding 80% ball possession in their recent league game, showcasing their control in the midfield.
As Braga gear up to defend their narrow 2-1 advantage in the second leg of the Champions League qualifying playoff, they face a rejuvenated Panathinaikos on Greek soil. The Portuguese side, tantalisingly close to taking a two-goal cushion to Greece, were thwarted by a dramatic last-minute effort from the hosts in the first leg.
Recap of the First Leg
In a night filled with drama at Estádio Municipal, Ivan Jovanovic’s men from Greece exhibited exceptional defensive fortitude. This resilience was finally breached by Braga’s Abel Ruiz and Alvaro Djalo.
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However, as the game approached its climax, Daniel Mancini produced a memorable moment, ensuring Panathinaikos remained firmly in contention.
Momentum with Panathinaikos
Panathinaikos’s recent form is hard to ignore. A resounding 3-0 triumph over Volos in the Greek Super League, courtesy of goals from Adam Gnezda Cerin, Fotis Ioannidis, and Benjamin Verbic, was the latest display of their prowess. The victory also extended their unbeaten streak at their Athens fortress to 12 games, a run dating back to a defeat to PAOK in January.
Jovanovic’s team is on the cusp of achieving something they haven’t done in over a decade: qualifying for the Champions League group stages. If they fall short, a return to Europa League action, after a seven-year hiatus, would still be a remarkable accomplishment.
Braga’s European Ambitions
While Panathinaikos dream of past European glories, Braga are no strangers to continental football. Frequently serenaded by the Europa League anthem, a prestigious Champions League berth is now tantalisingly within their grasp. A 7-1 drubbing of Backa Topola in the third qualifying round and a triumphant 4-2 outing against Chaves further highlight their pedigree.
Team News and Predictions
With a clean bill of health from the first leg, Jovanovic had the luxury of rotating his squad in their league opener. While Verbic and Mancini have been prolific, Sebastian Palacios, after unimpressive outings, could find his position under scrutiny. Ioannidis is pushing for a starting role, with Filip Djuricic likely to be the creative fulcrum.
On the Braga front, Jorge’s side was dealt a blow when Al-Musrati had to be substituted early in the first leg. His potential absence in Athens might see Andre Horta partner Vitor Carvalho. Ricardo Horta, despite setting up both of Braga’s goals in the first leg, is yet to find the back of the net at this level.
Predictions:
- Match Outcome: Considering the form and stakes, a draw seems the most plausible outcome, offering reasonable odds.
- Correct Score: Given the attacking threat both teams possess, a 1-1 scoreline is a strong possibility.
- Goalscorer Prediction: Benjamin Verbic, having already found the net recently and boasting an impressive average [BettingTips4You Expert Rating] of 7.80, is the prime candidate to score.
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