Sparta Prague vs Partizan Belgrade Predictions

• Sparta Prague are unbeaten in their last seven competitive matches
• Partizan scored just six goals in their six group stage games in this competition
• Sparta Prague drop into the Conference League having almost qualified from a strong Europa League group

Sparta Prague have hit the ground running following Christmas break

Sparta Prague made use of friendlies over the Christmas break to ensure they stayed sharp. This has paid dividends, as the Czech outfit have hit the ground running following the break in their competitive games and will be fine-tuned for Thursday’s game.  Since the Czech leagues hiatus Sparta Prague have beaten Slavia Prague in the cup and drew with Plzen last weekend. These two teams and 1^st and 2^nd respectively in the Czech league.

Partizan lacked fire power in the group stages

Partizan only managed to find the net six times in their six Europa Conference League group stage games. The change in away goal rules – they no longer count double should the scores be level at the end of the second leg, is hardly going to inspire the Partizan side to be more adventurous in this one. With all the emphasise on the home side to force the play, I expect Sparta Prague to make hey on Thursday evening.

Sparta Prague were just a solidarity point from progressing to the knockout stages of the Europa League – having finished third they dropped into this competition, this is no disgrace, having been in a group that boasted Lyon and Rangers. In truth, the Czech side have faced a much higher level of opposition in Europe so far this season and can lean on these experiences in this game. The main selection will be Sparta Prague to win in the outright market. Given Partizan’s lack of fire power in the group stages, I will chance a 2-0 home win for my correct score prediction.