Slovan Bratislava is eager to avenge their recent defeat as they host Lille in the Europa Conference League on Thursday.
In their previous encounter, Lille secured a 2-1 victory over the Slovakian champions at Stade Pierre-Mauroy two weeks ago, placing them at the top of Group A.
Match Preview
Slovan Bratislava remains in a promising position to progress to the knockout stages of the Europa Conference League, despite their loss to Basel on penalties in the round-of-16 last season.
They kicked off this season with wins against KI Klasvik and NK Olimpija Ljubljana and took a 1-0 lead away to Lille. However, Lille’s late goals led to their defeat.
As the leaders in the domestic league with a four-point advantage over second-placed MSK Zilina, Slovan Bratislava is determined to make an impact in Europe this season.
A positive result on Thursday can significantly boost their chances of advancing to the next phase.
Lille, on the other hand, is enjoying European football after a hiatus last season due to their 10th-place finish in Ligue 1.
Under manager Paulo Fonseca, Lille finished fifth in Ligue 1 with 67 points, narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification.
Although Lille reached the knockout stages of the Europa League and Champions League in recent seasons, they are enthusiastic about the Europa Conference League.
With only one draw against KI Klasvik in the Faroe Islands as a blemish, they are on an unbeaten run in Ligue 1.
Depending on the results, a victory in the Slovakian capital could secure their progression to the last 16.
Team News
Slovan Bratislava will miss Lucas Lovat due to suspension after his dismissal in the return fixture.
Matus Vojtko is likely to replace him at left-back. The manager, Vladimir Weiss, may field a similar starting XI, with his son Vladimir Weiss possibly in contention for selection.
Lille is without Bafode Diakite and Tiago Djalo due to injuries but has an otherwise fully fit squad.
Jonathan David, Samuel Umtiti, and Cabella may return to the starting lineup after being benched in their previous match.
Predicted Lineups
Slovan Bratislava Possible Starting Lineup:
- Borjan;
- Bajric, Kashia, Wimmer;
- Barseghyan, Kucka, Savvidis, Kankava, Vojtko;
- Weiss, Cavric
Lille Possible Starting Lineup:
- Chevalier;
- Santos, Yoro, Umtiti, Gudmundsson;
- Gomes, Andre;
- Ounas, Yazici, Cabella;
- David
Prediction: Slovan Bratislava 1-1 Lille
Given the closely contested previous match and home advantage for Slovan Bratislava, both sides are likely to be content with a draw if the game appears to be heading in that direction.