Konyaspor vs Braga predictions, betting tips & match preview

These are the two outsiders in Group H, with Shakhtar Donetsk and Gent looking on course for the next round. The opening two rounds of fixtures have seen both Konyaspor and Braga struggle. The Turkish side have lost both games, while Braga have one point from a possible six. Can the Portuguese side get their campaign up and running against the Europa League newcomers?

Braga are narrow favourites for this game, but neither side has shown enough to make them stand out. At this rate, the top two will have little competition for a place in the knockout rounds. Braga need to end a poor run of scoring form if they’re to claim a victory here. They have scored just once in their last six away Europa League games. They’ve already made a trip to Turkey in this competition recently, losing 1-0 to Fenerbahce earlier this year.

They’ve scored just one goal in the Europa League so far, and that came from a set play. Overall, they’ve managed to convert only 4% of their chances so far. They have a better record domestically, but they still can’t seem to get going in Europe. Their scoring worries aren’t unique to them, every game in this group so far has seen under 2.5 goals.

Compared to Konyaspor, Braga’s worries aren’t that bad. The Turkish side have failed to score in Europe so far, and their last three games in all competitions have seen less than 2.5 goals. They’ve just made their debut in the Europa League this season, and they’re clearly not up to speed with the competition. They lost their first game 1-0 to Shakhtar, before losing away to Gent.

Neither of these sides are good at dominating games, which might explain their poor record in front of goal. They’ve both averaged just 39% possession in their opening matches in this group. Their average time in possession is less than four passes before losing the ball. No wonder Braga made just five chances away to Shakhtar. Neither seem to be able to string a move together, so it’s hard to see goals here.

Just one of the four games in this group has seen both sides score. Braga where at home that day, against a side with a lot of European experience. The Portuguese side seem timid on their travels, while Konyaspor are barely managing a shot on target. We’re backing against both teams scoring here, which is 10/11 with bet365.