Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the UEFA Conference League match.
One of the most intriguing pairs in the Europa Conference League playoff qualifiers could deliver a surprise. The Swedish side holds an advantage in match fitness, while the German team boasts higher-class players. The first leg promises to be thrilling.
BK Häcken
In the last two rounds of qualification, Häcken faced relatively modest opponents from Luxembourg and Estonia but failed to secure a perfect record. On the pitch against Paide, the Swedish team only managed a draw, with the underdog matching them in chances (8-9 in shots). That match was also notable as Axel Lindahl, the team’s primary full-back, got injured, he's unlikely to be available for the rest of the Conference League qualifiers.
Heidenheim
Heidenheim’s confident debut in the Bundesliga last season earned them a spot in the European competition. In preseason, they secured seven consecutive victories, including significant wins against Parma (1:0) and Espanyol (2:1). Following the departures of Tim Kleindienst and Jan-Niklas Beste, forward Marvin Pieringer has emerged as the new leader for the German side. In the DFB-Pokal match against Willingen (4:0), newcomer striker Maximilian Breunig scored a hat-trick, making him another key player to watch.
BK Häcken - Heidenheim Prediction
In terms of player quality, Heidenheim surpass their opponent. We’ll choose a reliable handicap (0) on the German team, as the match takes place in Sweden where Häcken might put up a strong resistance.
