Prediction: Ferencvaros vs Shamrock Rovers

Prediction: Ferencvaros win

Best Odds: 4/9

Bookmaker: 888sport

The UEFA Europa League continues on through the month of August as fans get ready for the full competition to get underway with the big boys entering the conversation. Before that, however, we have the play-off round to get excited about, as a parade of clubs attempt to take a big step forward in their season – including Ferencvaros and Shamrock Rovers who will meet on Thursday night.

Ferencvaros

Ferencvaros have been the kings of Hungarian football for a long time now and when you find yourself in that position domestically, it can be pretty tempting to look towards Europe and think about just how far you can go – with the French and Scottish top tiers being perfect examples of that. If they can edge through to the group stage, we wouldn’t be surprised to see them make a real go of it.

Shamrock Rovers

Shamrock Rovers are in a strange situation given that they’re in the middle of their league campaign but in equal measure, they’ll be hungry to prove they have what it takes to do some damage in the Europa. They’ve been good at splitting their priorities in the past and they’ve put up a really good fight so far in their season, but they’ll have to dig really deep if they want to progress.

Factors to Consider

• The winner of this tie progresses to the group stage of the Europa League.
• Ferencvaros won the Hungarian Premier League last season.
• Shamrock are currently top of the League of Ireland Premier Division.
• Ferencvaros slipped into the UEL qualifying after losing to Qarabag.
• Shamrock slipped into the UEL qualifying after losing to Ludogorets.

Conclusion

Shamrock have goals in them but within the context of the European stage, they often find it hard to stay tight at the back – and we imagine that’ll be especially true with a lively Hungarian fanbase staring the in the face. Ferencvaros have the ability to put teams to the sword and while we do think Shamrock will stick a lot of numbers at the back, a 2-0 win is what we’re going to predict for this clash.

Prediction: Ferencvaros win

Best Odds: 4/9

Bookmaker: 888sport