Besiktas vs Genk Predictions

Could Belgian league leaders Genk cause a huge surprise in Istanbul on Thursday? They head to Besiktas in the Europa League, with the pair battling for a place in the last 32. Group I is incredibly tight so far, with all four sides locked on three points and the same goal difference. Things are likely to stay just as close throughout the rest of the group, so home games are going to be crucial. Can Besiktas claim a victory in front of their own fans and continue their push for the next round?

So far, every Group I game has finished with a home win, and Besiktas should be expecting to continue that form. The hosts kicked things off with a 3-1 win over Sarpsborg in the opening match-day, and now they face a Genk side who lost by the same scoreline to Sarpsborg. Everything’s been incredibly even so far, but the Turkish champions will be expected to kick on. They’ve surely got getting to the last 32 as a minimum aim, while recent years have seen them striving for big results in Europe.

Genk won their opening home game 2-0 against Malmo, but their latest defeat left them second in the group, alongside third placed Besiktas, who have each scored three goals so far. The Belgians will be delighted with their domestic campaign, which has seen them go top of the pile after 11 games, with a healthy three point advantage at the top. They are hoping that great form converts to their remaining games in the Europa League, but they return to the competition with a really difficult trip here.

Genk’s domestic form is excellent, and they will likely contrast that with Besiktas and their struggles of late. The hosts have won just one of their last five games. However, the key thing is that the only victory came in their one home game in that run. The Turkish side are being held back by poor form on the road, which isn’t a concern for this clash.

At home, Besiktas have won five games on the spin. in this competition, they have won their last eight home matches. That excellent form sets them up for a victory over Genk this week, with the visitors already losing a less-intimidating trip to Sarpsborg. We’re tipping a Besiktas victory, and we’re going for a 2-1 home win for the Turkish giants.