Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Conference League match.
In the previous round of the Europa Conference League, Petrocub managed a draw with Istanbul Basaksehir (1:1) in Istanbul. However, it seems likely that this might be the last point the team from Hincesti secures in this tournament. They will, of course, host the renowned Real Betis not in their village, but in Chisinau.
Petrocub Hincesti
The first stage of the Moldovan league concluded before their encounter with Istanbul Basaksehir, which leaves an already struggling team lacking match practice. During earlier group stage matches, they frequently saw themselves trailing well before the final whistle. They have not lost by fewer than a two-goal margin in this competition. Istanbul Basaksehir simply failed to capitalise on their opportunities (2.16 xGA, 14 shots, and 5 on target), while Petrocub scored with one of their two accurate attempts in the 96th minute.
Real Betis
The Seville club understand this scenario and will aim to settle the match in their favour as quickly as possible. Real Betis have just emerged from a minor crisis, characterised by a four-match winless streak, during which they still managed to score in three matches but conceded two goals on average. Defeating fourth-division side Sant Andreu in the Copa del Rey wasn’t challenging (3:1), and a draw with Barcelona (2:2) in La Liga is a more significant indicator of their potential. Indeed, they should have emerged victorious against Barcelona rather than salvaging a point, as they crafted five clear scoring chances compared to their opponents’ three, with their expected goal tally amounting to 3.15.
Petrocub Hincesti vs Real Betis Prediction
Given their potent attack, Real Betis should comfortably dominate the Moldovan newcomers at this serious stage of the competition. The victory is expected to be in favour of the visitors. As goal difference may come into play in the final standings, Real Betis will strive to score generously.