Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Europa League match.
This matchup between two bottom-ranked teams in the Europa League group stage, set to take place at Volksparkstadion in Hamburg, holds no tournament significance. Both Dynamo Kyiv and Rigas Futbola Skola will treat this fixture as preparation for their respective domestic campaigns.
Dynamo Kyiv
A thrilling 3:3 draw in Istanbul against a strong Galatasaray side proved that Dynamo Kyiv have been unlucky with their results in the Europa League. The Ukrainian side fought back from 1:3 at half-time, generating 0.98 xG and producing six shots over the 90 minutes. Their attacking potential remains solid. Last Thursday, the coaching staff tested their reserves in a friendly against Laçi (2:2), ensuring that their first-choice squad are in peak condition for this final group-stage match.
Rigas Futbola Skola
RFS were fortunate to claim a 1:0 victory over Ajax last week, as the underdogs were simply more clinical with their chances (0.21–0.96 in xG and 2–6 in shots on target). However, it's unlikely they can pull off the same trick twice. Manager Viktors Morozs’ three-at-the-back system has led to defensive lapses, and mistakes are expected from both sides. In their away Europa League fixtures this season, RFS have failed to collect a single point, conceding seven goals across three defeats.
Dynamo Kyiv vs Rigas Futbola Skola Prediction
In February last year, Dynamo Kyiv defeated Rigas Futbola Skola in a friendly (1:0), and the official nature of this match should provide extra motivation for the Ukrainian side. Backing a home victory seems the best option.
