Gent take on the visitors Partizan in the second leg of final round of UEFA Conference League qualification. First leg result: 1-0. The match will be played on Wednesday, August 28th at Planet Group Arena (Gent).
Gent managed to secure a 1-0 victory against Serbian side Partizan in an empty stadium in Belgrade, making the "Buffaloes" even stronger favorites to advance to the group stage of the UEFA Conference League. However, in my opinion, it will be very challenging for Gent’s defense to keep a clean sheet in the return leg. The "Buffaloes" will likely try to play on the front foot here. It would seem strange if Gent were to focus solely on defensive football on their home turf against a team from Eastern Europe. Moreover, this season, Gent has oddly been defending much worse at home than on the road. For example, they allowed several scoring opportunities in recent home games against the modest Faroe Islands side Vikingur (4-1), Denmark’s Silkeborg (2-2 in the Conference League), Belgian Pro League newcomers Dender (1-2), and Westerlo (4-1).
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The hardcore ultra group of Partizan fans, the "Gravediggers," continues their protest against the club’s management by boycotting home games—even the eternal derbies against Red Star Belgrade. Of course, playing in front of empty stands is unpleasant for anyone, which might explain Partizan's lack of attacking intent in Belgrade during their recent European matches. However, away from home, the "Gravediggers" continue to passionately support their club, as they did in their last away game against Lugano in Switzerland in the Europa League, where the Serbs won 2-1. Even earlier, Partizan scored twice on the road against Dynamo Kyiv (2-6) in the Champions League qualifiers.
Fans of the Belgrade "Army Men" will undoubtedly be present in large numbers at this match as well. Therefore, Partizan will be compelled to push forward and at least score one goal. It’s also worth noting that Gent has been unable to keep a clean sheet at home for six consecutive matches. Interestingly, three years ago, the "Buffaloes" and "Partisans" also faced off in the Conference League, but in the group stage. Back then, Gent also won the first match in Belgrade 1-0 but ended up conceding a goal in the return leg at home, drawing 1-1. Lastly, it's worth mentioning that former Danish national team midfielder Hulsager will not play for the hosts... I expect the visitors to score.
Prediction for the match: Partizan to score – yes.
