Nantes vs Qarabag prediction: EUROPE: Europa League – Group Stage betting tips on match 2022-10-26 19:00.
Four points from their last two league games was enough to lift Nantes two points clear of the Ligue 1 relegation zone and perhaps give them a psychological boost, but concerns remain over their continental form ahead of this crucial clash. Nantes can at best finish runners-up in Group G of the UEFA Europa League (UEL), but as they sit four points behind current second place side Qarabağ, this game is a must win for their UEL knockout hopes.
Nantes are now in danger of losing four consecutive European games for the first-time, and considering only FC Zürich have conceded more goals than their ten in the UEL group stages after matchday four, the blame has to mainly fall on a leaking back line. Scoring goals has proven difficult too with only two strikes so far, and improving upon that may be critical to even finish third and secure the consolation prize of the UEFA Europa Conference League play-offs, which certainly wouldn’t be a disgrace for the UEL debutants.
Qarabağ should be travelling with determination as the Azerbaijani visitors can confirm a top-two spot by avoiding defeat on this trip. That will undoubtedly be the primary target for Qarabağ who are into their ninth consecutive European group stage appearance, but having made it out of the groups just once prior, there could be an element of doubt as to whether they can finish the job.
Travelling on the back of an unbeaten nine-game competitive run (W8, D1), and with the confidence of starting their domestic league season with ten-straight wins, should stand Qarabağ in good stead for their French sojourn. They haven’t always enjoyed travelling to French shores, having failed to win on their four previous European visits (D1, L3), although a 3-0 win in the reverse fixture builds belief they can post their first win in this nation.
Players to watch: Nantes will hope for a goal from on-loan forward Mostafa Mohamed with his last three home strikes coming in wins, including their only UEL victory this campaign. Ramil Sheydayev may look to provide Qarabağ’s answer having scored three goals across his last two games, whilst also netting their last UEL away goal.
Hot stat: Qarabağ have led at half-time just once against French teams (HT: W1, D4, L4).