The Europa League qualifying rounds bring an exciting clash between MFK Ruzomberok and Trabzonspor.
As these teams prepare to face off, fans and analysts alike are eager to see who will come out on top. This article provides a comprehensive prediction, team news, form guide, and more.
Match Preview
MFK Ruzomberok
Ruzomberok secured their spot in the Europa League qualifiers by winning the Slovensky Pohar.
They finished sixth in Slovakia's top-flight league last season with 34 points from 22 games.
Despite a 1-0 loss to Tobol in the second leg of the first qualifying round, a commanding 5-2 victory in the first leg ensured their progress with a 5-3 aggregate score.
Trabzonspor
Trabzonspor, third in the Turkish Super Lig last season, finished with 67 points from 38 games.
They didn't participate in the first qualifying round, making this their first competitive match since May.
Trabzonspor's strong offensive and defensive records, scoring 69 and conceding 50 goals, respectively, make them formidable opponents.
Team News
MFK Ruzomberok
The hosts are likely to field a similar lineup to the one that triumphed over Tobol.
Jan Hladik and Martin Chrien are expected to lead the attack, supported by defenders Simon Gabriel, Matus Maly, and Alexander Selecky, who were instrumental in their previous victory.
Trabzonspor
Trabzonspor will miss centre-back Huseyin Turkmen due to an Achilles tendon rupture.
Midfielder Enis Bardhi, who scored in a recent friendly, could play a key role. The probable starting lineup includes Tepe, Elmali, Denswil, Mendy, Asan, Gunes, Lundstram, Visca, Bardhi, Trezeguet, and Bozok.
Form Guide
MFK Ruzomberok
Europa League: W L
All Competitions: D D L D W L
Trabzonspor
All Competitions: W W
Prediction
While Ruzomberok's recent form and home advantage give them hope, Trabzonspor's superior squad depth and quality make them favourites.
Despite potential defensive vulnerabilities, the visitors' attacking prowess should secure a win.
Our Prediction: MFK Ruzomberok 1-2 Trabzonspor
