Both clubs are leading their respective national leagues but live for and thrive in European competitions, where their starts have been less than ideal. It’s time for them to turn things around if they don’t want to find themselves at the bottom of the table.
The Israeli champions, Maccabi Tel Aviv, started their first-round match against Sporting Braga on a high note but ended on a low. A first-half goal from the penalty spot put them in the lead until the 88th minute. Then came disappointment. They conceded two goals, the second from a penalty awarded after the four minutes of injury time had elapsed. Due to emotional outbursts in the 98th minute, Maccabi Tel Aviv lost their key central midfielder Gabi Kanichowsky and right-back Tyrese Asante to second yellow cards, leading to their sending-off. The weekend didn’t go well either; they dropped their first points in the league, drawing 1:1 with Ironi Tiberias.
Midtjylland’s players regret missing out on a home victory in their Europa League opener against TSG Hoffenheim. The German side scored in the 89th minute. Statistically, the Danish club deserved to win, creating more scoring opportunities (3 to 1) and chances with an xG of 2.23 to 1.48. Nevertheless, their unbeaten streak continues. They extended it to six games by defeating Viborg FF 3:1 in the Danish Superliga.
Unlike the Israeli side, the Danes haven’t lost any key players ahead of this game, and their confidence has grown following their recent victory. If they nearly beat a Bundesliga club, they should at least secure a draw against the Israeli champions, even away.
