The only way is Europa !

Thursday night brings the return of the Europa league and some eye catching fixtures, in a tournament not highly valued by English teams there are some big European clubs left fighting for cup glory. 

The first match is Eredivisie division leaders AZ at home to Valencia, the home side will feel confident going into the match with a record of being unbeaten in seven home European matches and having never lost at home to Spanish opposition. 

Match Tip

Back AZ draw not bet @1.94



What could be the most entertaining match of this round could be Schalke against Bilbao.  Two teams that have produced goals all season and include some mouth watering attacking talent go head to head in what some would prefer to see as the final.  Schalke boast a unbeaten home record but have conceded in nearly all their matches.  Bilbao sadly have a very poor record in Germany and I would doubt if they can improve on that tomorrow.  The home side are likely to name a unchanged team from the weekend but Athletic must wait on Llorente.

Match Tip

Lay 0-0 half time score @3.85



The battle of the surprise packages pits Sporting against Metalist, both teams boast great form in the tournament.  Sporting grinding out results at home and Metalist scoring lots of goals away from home.  Overall I think Sporting will attempt to grind out another low scoring match but it could well be a battle of wills.  It will be interesting to see if Sporting can over come the visitors or if the win over Manchester city result was their final.

Match Tip

Under 2.5 goals @1.75



The final match sees Athletico Madrid host Hannover, the home side must strongly rate their chances of taking a lead into the second leg.  Athletico have only suffered one home defeat in seven home matches compared to the visitors record of two away wins in eight matches.  The home side also will be boosted by Deigo & Thiago.  The visitors are looking to reach their first every European semi final but I struggle to believe they will acheive it this season.  Athletico were my tips for potential winners alongside Bilbao and I won't be changing my mind just yet.


Match Tip

Over 2.5 goals @1.76