In the first leg of the UEFA Europa Conference League third qualifying round, Ballkani host Shamrock Rovers. Both teams advanced confidently from the second round and now stand two steps away from the group stage.
Ballkani overcame Floriana with an aggregate score of 5:3, having secured a strong 4:2 lead in the first leg. Despite claiming three consecutive domestic titles in Kosovo from 2021 to 2023, the team fell short last season, ending the campaign 12 points off the summit. In European competition, they aim to emulate their previous progress to the latter stages of the Conference League in both 2022 and 2023. However, their home form remains a concern: Ballkani have lost four of their last six home matches in all competitions, managing only one win in that stretch.
Shamrock Rovers, after seeing their domestic title streak halted in 2024 with a second-place finish, have responded strongly and currently lead the league by 10 points after 26 rounds. They are in excellent form, winning five of their last six fixtures while keeping five consecutive clean sheets. In the previous round, they comfortably saw off St. Joseph’s, winning 4:0 away before a goalless draw at home. Defensive stability continues to be a major strength for the squad.
Ballkani have shown vulnerability at home, while Shamrock Rovers appear organised and composed. The visitors are enjoying a strong run and are difficult to break down defensively. We’re backing them with a zero handicap.
