Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Conference League match.
Slovan Bratislava remain top of the Slovak Super Liga, though their advantage is slim — just two points clear of Spartak Trnava. The big question is whether they can hold their own against Ligue 1 opposition in Strasbourg.
Slovan Bratislava
Slovan Bratislava needed late heroics to salvage a 3:3 draw away at Žilina on 13 September, coming from two goals down after the 85th minute. Last season, the team reached the Champions League group stage but failed to register a point — their narrow 2:3 loss to AC Milan was the closest they came, with all other defeats by at least a two-goal margin. In qualifying this year, they impressed at home against Zrinjski (4:0) and shocked eventual sensation Kairat (1:0), but the gap to Europe’s elite remains obvious.
Strasbourg
The French side haven’t featured in European competition since 2019/20 and are back in the group phase of a continental tournament for the first time in 20 years. A youthful squad surged to seventh in Ligue 1 last season, earning their spot in Europe. Over the summer, several key players returned to parent clubs or were sold, yet Strasbourg’s rebuilt line-up has continued to shine and currently sit inside the top five in France. Quick and energetic in attack, they have the firepower to trouble Slovan Bratislava, though inexperience and defensive lapses remain an issue.
Slovan Bratislava vs Strasbourg Prediction
Strasbourg come into this clash as favourites, with superior quality across the pitch. That said, Slovan Bratislava’s home record in Europe suggests they won’t roll over easily. Expect the hosts to stay competitive, even if the French outfit ultimately edges it.
