Shamrock Rovers vs Vikingur Reykjavik predictions for this Champions League qualifier. After a goalless first leg in Iceland, Shamrock Rovers and Vikingur Reykjavik will conclude their Champions League qualifying round at Tallaght Stadium on Tuesday. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Champions League | First Qualifying Round | 2nd Leg | Jul 16, 2024 at 8pm UK at Tallaght Stadium
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Shamrock Rovers vs Vikingur Reykjavik Predictions
Can Shamrock Rovers Overcome Vikingur Reykjavik’s Challenge at Home?
Key Stats
– Shamrock Rovers have not won any of their last 12 European games.
– Vikingur Reykjavik have never won an away game in European competitions.
– Seven of Shamrock Rovers’ last eight matches have gone under 2.5 goals.
After a 0-0 draw first leg in Iceland last week, Shamrock Rovers and Vikingur Reykjavik will clash in their Champions League first qualifying round battle at Tallaght Stadium on Tuesday. The goalless draw in Reykjavik has set the stage for an intriguing encounter in Dublin, where both sides will be eager to advance to the next round and secure a lucrative tie against Sparta Prague.
Match Preview
The initial leg saw Shamrock Rovers put up a resolute defensive display, managing to contain Vikingur Reykjavik’s advances effectively. The Irish side will be pleased with their clean sheet and will aim to leverage their home advantage to progress in the competition. With a win, Rovers can significantly boost their financial gains and secure three opportunities to participate in European competitions next season.
Stephen Bradley’s team demonstrated commendable defensive resilience last week, restricting Vikingur to half-chances from corners despite facing 18 of them. This defensive solidity will be crucial as they aim to shut out their opponents once again. Additionally, Shamrock Rovers had to navigate the final 10 minutes of the match with a player down after Darragh Nugent’s second yellow card. Despite this setback, they managed to keep their opponents at bay, even benefiting from the woodwork twice.
In contrast, Vikingur Reykjavik have struggled away from home in European competitions, having never won on their travels. Although they remain unbeaten at home this season and boast a 17-match unbeaten run across all competitions, their away form in European qualifiers is less impressive, with three losses in their last four attempts.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Shamrock Rovers will be without Darragh Nugent due to his suspension, potentially paving the way for Johnny Kenny to start. Rory Gaffney and Aaron McEneff are sidelined with injuries, while Graham Burke remains doubtful after missing the last three matches. Vikingur Reykjavik might see Ari Sigurpalsson replace Helgi Gudjonsson, who sustained a knock in the first leg.
Shamrock Rovers possible starting lineup: Pohls; Lopes, Cleary, Hoare; Honohan, O’Neill, Watts, Clarke; Kenny, Byrne; Greene
Vikingur Reykjavik possible starting lineup: Jonsson; Gunnarsson, Ekroth, Vatnhamar, Fjoluson; Djuric, Punyed, Sigurpalsson; Agnarsson, Hansen, Ingimundarson
Analysis of Expected Gameplay and Key Duels
Shamrock Rovers are expected to adopt a more attacking approach at home, looking to capitalise on their defensive strengths and exploit Vikingur’s vulnerabilities. With a solid backline and a strong midfield, Rovers will aim to control possession and create scoring opportunities through quick transitions and set-pieces.
The midfield battle will be crucial, with Shamrock Rovers’ Dylan Watts and Neil Farrugia likely to play pivotal roles. Their ability to link up play and provide creative spark will be vital against a Vikingur side that relies heavily on set-pieces and counter-attacks.
For Vikingur, the key lies in breaking down Shamrock Rovers’ organised defence. Players like Danijel Dejan Djuric and Aron Elís Þrándarson will need to be at their best to find gaps and create chances. The Icelandic side will also look to exploit any set-piece opportunities, given their proficiency in this area.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Both Teams
Shamrock Rovers have demonstrated strong defensive capabilities, with their disciplined backline and organised structure. However, their attack has been inconsistent, and they will need to improve their finishing to secure a win. The absence of key players like Gaffney and McEneff might affect their offensive potential, placing additional pressure on Kenny and Greene to deliver.
Vikingur Reykjavik’s strength lies in their physicality and set-piece proficiency. They have been effective in converting set-pieces into scoring opportunities, as seen in their domestic league performances. However, their away form in Europe is a significant weakness, and their inability to secure victories on the road could hinder their progress.
Managerial Analysis and Critique
Stephen Bradley of Shamrock Rovers has shown tactical astuteness in setting up a resilient defence. However, his team’s lack of offensive creativity and clinical finishing needs addressing. The Rovers’ recent form has been patchy, and Bradley must find a way to instil consistency in their performances.
On the other hand, Arnar Gunnlaugsson’s Vikingur Reykjavik have been impressive domestically but falter on the European stage, particularly away from home. Gunnlaugsson’s reliance on set-pieces and physical play may not be sufficient against higher-level opposition, and he must develop a more versatile tactical approach.
Expected Goals Averages and Potential Betting Angles
Shamrock Rovers have averaged 1.3 goals per game in their domestic league, with a solid defence conceding only one goal per game. Their home form and defensive strengths suggest a low-scoring encounter. Vikingur Reykjavik, with an average of 2.4 goals per game domestically, have shown their attacking prowess but might struggle against a well-organised Rovers defence.
Predictions
Best Bet: Shamrock Rovers to Win
Shamrock Rovers’ home advantage and defensive solidity make them the favourites for this tie. Their ability to contain Vikingur’s set-pieces and create scoring opportunities at home should see them through. While their recent form has been inconsistent, the return to their home ground provides an opportunity to secure a crucial win and advance in the competition.
Correct Score Prediction: Shamrock Rovers 2-0 Vikingur Reykjavik
Considering Shamrock Rovers’ defensive capabilities and Vikingur’s struggles on the road, a 2-0 victory for the home side is a reasonable prediction. Rovers are likely to adopt a more attacking approach and find the back of the net while maintaining their defensive discipline to keep a clean sheet.
Goalscorer Prediction: Johnny Kenny to Score Anytime
Johnny Kenny, who is expected to start in this match, will be eager to make an impact. His pace and positioning can trouble Vikingur’s defence, and with the added motivation of playing at home, Kenny is a strong candidate to find the back of the net.
Corner Prediction: Shamrock Rovers to Win the Most Corners
Given Shamrock Rovers’ attacking intent and Vikingur’s reliance on set-pieces, the home side is likely to win more corners. Rovers’ ability to create chances and press forward should see them dominate in this aspect of the game. A total of around 10-12 corners in the match seems plausible, with Rovers having the majority.
Innovative Market Prediction: Under 2.5 Total Cards
This match could see a disciplined approach from both sides, focusing on tactical play rather than aggressive challenges. With Shamrock Rovers aiming to maintain control and Vikingur looking to exploit set-pieces, the game might not witness many fouls or bookings. Betting on under 2.5 total cards presents an interesting angle, considering both teams’ tactical styles.
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