Match: UEFA Europa League
Fixture: Hibernian vs. Midtjylland
Local kick-off time: 20:00 on July 31
Venue: Easter Road Stadium
Handicap prediction:
Midtjylland -0.75 (Asian Handicap)
Away win (European Odds)
Predicted scores: 1-2, 1-3, 2-3
Predicted total goals: 3, 4, 5
Comprehensive analysis:
Home side Hibernian, a team from the Scottish league, finished third in the league last season, thus earning a spot in the Europa League qualifying rounds. Their recent performance in friendly matches has been underwhelming, with relatively average form. However, they picked up a point in the first leg against Midtjylland, bringing the advantage back to their home ground. The team scored early in their last game, which did involve a certain element of luck, but their defense has been fairly solid. Their overall attacking firepower remains lackluster, and their squad depth is clearly inferior to Midtjylland’s. Even with home advantage, it will be no easy task for them to hold their ground in this match.
Midtjylland are a powerhouse in the Danish Superliga, having claimed the league title last season. In the first leg, the team was not in top form, failing to convert multiple golden opportunities. However, they quickly bounced back with a 6-2 home victory, which undoubtedly boosted the team’s confidence. Traveling to Hibernian’s away ground, the team will most likely stick to an attacking approach—after all, Hibernian are a side that plays defensive counter-attacks. Seizing the initiative early in the game will be crucial to the outcome.
Summary:
In terms of recent form, Midtjylland have the upper hand. They have played one more league game in their schedule. For this away fixture, Hibernian, holding home advantage, will see a historic turnout of nearly 20,000 fans, breaking the post-2000 attendance record at the renovated home stadium and gaining massive support. Coupled with their away draw in the first leg, off the pitch, both fan backing and public attention seem to be on Hibernian’s side. Yet, despite Hibernian having advantages in fitness and home ground, they have not received much support in the handicap; instead, Midtjylland have been given a -0.75 line, which appears overly lenient against Hibernian. Given such a deep concession from the bookmakers, it is highly probable that Midtjylland will secure a victory in this match.
