We may only be in July, but it’s time to get ready for the return of the UEFA Champions League. Europe’s biggest and best club competition is already underway with clubs across the continent working hard to qualify for the group stage. Today, we’ll be taking a look at what should be a fun second leg clash between The New Saints and BK Hacken.
TNS Form GuideWithin the context of Wales’ top tier, The New Saints are a pretty memorable side. They’ve won back-to-back league titles, as well as 10 of the last 12 - and they’re showing no signs of slowing down. Sure, they may rarely make an impression in Europe, but it’s all about time and confidence. If they can get some more money invested into the club, they could really begin to flourish.
Despite many feeling as if they’d be able to put up a really strong fight in the first leg, New Saitns ultimately couldn’t keep up during their trip to Sweden. They were 2-0 down within the first 15 minutes and although they fought back, a 3-1 scoreline leaves them vulnerable.
Hacken Form GuideBK Hacken may not be one of the most recognisable clubs in Swedish football, but something tells us that’s about to change. They are the reigning Allsvenskan champions after winning their first title last season, and now, a big push in the UCL is at the top of their radar. They may be in the midst of another domestic campaign, but we don’t think that’s going to slow them down.
In terms of confidence, you’d have to think Hacken will have plenty of that in their locker right now. In addition to winning the first leg 3-1, they’ve also picked up wins over Brommapojkarna, AIK, Varbergs and Gothenburg over the course of the last few weeks.
Match PredictionNew Saints are going to have a passionate fanbase behind them but with a notable lead to overturn, don’t be surprised to see a far more tactical approach than we have from them in the past. Hacken are great at hitting on the counter but will be eager to preserve their advantage, which is why we’re backing under 2.5 goals scored.
