Sparta Praha vs Sonderjyske Predictions, Betting Tips, & Match Preview

Sonderjyske’s 2015/2016 2nd place finish in the Danish Superliga was a surprise for many, seeing as they narrowly avoided relegation the season before – a somewhat Leicester City-esque switch around! This was Sonderjyske’s first top two finish since the 2007/2008 season and qualified them for the UEFA Europa League for the first time since they were founded in 2004. The host’s strong end of season form has, however, failed to transfer over into the new season. With the Danish Superliga already well underway, Sonderjyske have taken just three points from their opening six fixtures (D3 L3) and stand only one point above the relegation position.

Sparta Prague are also a few matches into their domestic season, but have a much better and more consistent set of results behind them. Sparta have won three and drawn one of their first four which puts them top of the league, equal on points with FC Zlin but ahead by goal difference. Though Sparta had a tough run in against in-form Romanian side Steaua Bucharest in the UEFA Champions League, where they were knocked out of the third qualifying round losing 3-1 on aggregate, they will certainly aim to replicate their progress into the latter stages of the Europa League as they have done over recent years.

While Sparta Prague remain the bookies’ favourite for the second leg, the market price on them to win at full time is fairly short at 4/11. Even though we don’t feel that the visitors stand a chance here, we do feel that there is better value to be had elsewhere in other markets. Sonderjyske aren’t unbeaten in five consecutive Europa League matches for no reason. Before last Thursday’s 0-0 first leg, where they actually registered more chances and shots on target, Sonderjyske had scored at least one goal in their last four consecutive Europa League matches. Sparta Praha, meanwhile, have scored at least one goal in seven consecutive Europa League home matches.Goals scored against the likes of Lazio and Schalke 04 in the group stages or further. Sonderjyske have had a decent Europa League run, but their return to mediocrity in the Danish Superliga comes as no surprise for many and we feel that the European competition veterans will take this one. To the Danish side’s credit, however, they have managed to steal a goal away from stronger sides now and then. For example, in the 1-1 draw at home to Danish giants FC Copenhagen earlier this month.

Hence, both teams to score at 11/10 and Sparta Prague to win 3-1 at 11/1 are our choice bets for this Europa League playoff round second leg.