Lugano vs Club Brugge KV Prediction & Tips
Having returned to a European group stage for the first time in four seasons, Lugano sit top of UEFA Europa Conference League (UECL) Group D with four points after two games. For the most part, this is due to a surprising turnaround on matchday two, when the Swiss side scored three times from the 81st minute to come from 2-0 down against Beşiktaş and win 3-2.
The “Bianconeri” will no doubt use that result as inspiration after a slight dip in their home form that has seen them lose their last two games, with coach Mattia Croci-Torti looking to ensure Lugano do not suffer a third consecutive defeat for the second time this season. Given that their last five games have been decided by a margin of just one goal, this clash promises to be a close one as they look to avoid that difficult situation.
Thursday’s opponents, Club Brugge, trail their hosts on goal difference, but the Belgians may still be frustrated at not having a 100 percent record in the UECL after squandering a late lead in a 1-1 draw against Beşiktaş on matchday one. Coach Ronny Deila, who was only appointed in July, certainly needs a win after a run of just one win in seven games (E4, P2), something that has seen the team drop to seventh place in the league having been champions in five of the last nine seasons.
The “Blue and Whites” have a fairly balanced record against Swiss teams (G6, E2, P4), but those stats mask a run of just one away win in six attempts. To improve on that recent trend, Club Brugge will want to get on the front foot quickly, but that’s something Deila’s men have failed to do often enough, scoring just once before the break since they began their UECL group stage participation six weeks ago.
Players to watch: Shkelqim Vladi got the equalizer in Lugano’s thrilling comeback against Beşiktaş and has also scored three goals in his last five starts. Meanwhile, Andreas Skov Olsen has been a bright light in a dark period for Club Brugge, playing a part in five goals in his last seven appearances (three goals, two assists), four of which came after the break.
Key stat: In eleven of Club Brugge’s last 13 matches both teams have scored.
Lugano – Club Brugge KV FREE TIPS
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