Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Europa League match.
A managerial change at Beşiktaş has already produced results, as they triumphed in the weekend derby against Fenerbahçe (1:0). Their trip to Bodø/Glimt will be a test for the Istanbul side, who need to improve their standing in the tournament—they risk falling out of the play-off zone if they lose.
Bodø/Glimt
Over the weekend, Bodø/Glimt wrapped up their Norwegian league campaign, claiming the championship once again after scoring 71 goals in 30 matches. Defeats to Qarabağ (1:2) and Manchester United (2:3) have distanced the Scandinavians from the Europa League's top eight, although they still consistently created chances in these matches. At Old Trafford, the team managed 0.77 xG and four shots on target for their two goals.
Beşiktaş
Injuries to key defenders Gabriel Paulista and Felix Uduokhai leave a gap in Beşiktaş’s defence. In the fifth round, they lacked attacking aggression against Maccabi Tel-Aviv (1:3), although the Israelis capitalised better on their opportunities (1.83–2.96 in xG). Across 10 away matches this season, the Istanbul side have secured victory only three times, highlighting their difficulty in picking up points on the road.
Bodø/Glimt vs Beşiktaş Prediction
Both Bodø/Glimt and Beşiktaş have seen over 2.5 goals scored in four of their five Europa League matches. We're backing goals in the match in Norway, as both sides play actively in the opposition half and consistently deliver goals.
