Slovacko vs Nice Prediction & Tips
Things are congested in Group D of the UEFA Europa Conference League (UECL), as first and last place are separated by just three points. At the bottom of the table are Slovacko of the Czech Republic, who have entertained so far in their debut in the group stage of European competition with their two matches totalling 12 goals scored, although their five goals have only been worth one point (E1, P1).
Martin Svědík’s side know that a win here would put them back in contention, and after halting a seven-match winless run (E3, P4) with an away win over Zlín at the weekend, Slovacko prepare to face Nice for the first time with a little more confidence inside the dressing room. A return to more familiar surroundings may create more security for Slovacko, who have proved difficult to beat at home in Europe after being unbeaten in their last four home games on the continental stage (G2, E2).
Nice make the trip to the Czech Republic on the back of two consecutive defeats, which are part of a run of just one win in their last six matches in all competitions (E2, P3). Those two draws came in their first two matches in the UECL group stage and both ended 1-1, and considering Nice have scored two goals or fewer in their last 12 European games, their defence needs to be more solid if they are to take all three points here.
But that is easier said than done, as the Eaglets have struggled against Czech sides recently, failing to win in their last four matches against such opponents (E2, P2). Their chances look even slimmer considering their poor away form, with nine defeats in their last 12 away games in Europe (G1, E2), raising further doubts that Nice could be in the basement of Group D at the end of Thursday’s match.
Players to watch: Slovacko’s Jan Kalabiška has scored three of his UECL group-stage goals this campaign, and has also opened the scoring in his last four goalscoring appearances. Nice’s Gaëtan Laborde, meanwhile, tends to score a little late, with all three of his away goals this campaign coming after the break.
Weekend stat: Nine of Slovacko’s last 12 matches have seen goals in both halves.
Slovacko – Nice FREE TIPS
Nice – Win @ 1.75
