Join our expert Europa League tipster as we break down the most thrilling clashes of matchweek two, kicking off on Thursday 29 September.
The first round of the Europa League threw up some shockers: giants like Manchester United and Inter Milan stumbled against underdogs, while Southampton, Zenit, and Sassuolo celebrated impressive victories.
This second week delivers a packed schedule, and we’ve handpicked five of the most captivating games for you. Let’s jump straight into the action!
Hapoel Be’er Sheva 2/1 | Draw 43/20 | Southampton 14/10
Hapoel Be’er Sheva stunned the football world with their win over Inter Milan at the intimidating San Siro. Missing out narrowly on Champions League qualification, the Israeli side is eager to leave a mark in the Europa League. Their resilience was clear as second-half goals from Miguel Vitor and Maor Buzaglo secured the victory, dominating the game and unsettling Frank de Boer’s men.
Southampton, buzzing after a 3-0 league win against West Ham, face a charged atmosphere at the Turner Stadium. While Hapoel relies on passionate home support, Southampton’s quality shines through with stars like Dusan Tadic, Sofiane Boufal and Nathan Redmond ready to take control early. Expect these classy Saints to handle the challenge. Tip: Southampton to win at 14/10.
Ajax 6/10 | Draw 28/10 | Standard Liege 17/4
Ajax began their Europa League journey with a gritty comeback against Panathinaikos, boosted by league wins over Heracles and Zwolle. Davy Klaassen has been sensational with five goals and three assists already this season. The Dutch side’s methodical build-up play and swift, precise passing make them a formidable force against less experienced teams.
Standard Liege have steadied their season and secured a solid home draw with Celta Vigo. Nevertheless, Ajax’s momentum and superior quality, especially at home, are likely to dominate here. Tip: Back Ajax to take all three points at 6/10.
Shakhtar 11/20 | Draw 31/10 | Braga 47/10
Shakhtar are in scintillating form—undefeated in nine Ukrainian Premier League matches and a strong start in Europa League with a win at Konyaspor. Their goal-scoring is well distributed, featuring 12 different scorers in nine league games, alongside a solid defence conceding just five goals.
Braga, fresh off a thrilling Europa run last season, currently sit fourth in their league and await to test their forwards Pedro Santos and Wilson Eduardo against Shakhtar’s rock-solid defence. It’s unlikely they’ll breach the Ukrainian defence. Take Shakhtar on the straight win at 11/20 for a safe play.
Manchester United 2/13 | Draw 6/1 | Zorya 17/1
Manchester United ended a slump with a strong 4-1 win over a struggling Leicester City. Mourinho’s tactical shift, benching Wayne Rooney and unleashing Paul Pogba, led to a dominant display and Pogba’s first Premier League goal on his comeback. Expect the Red Devils to overwhelm Zorya if the same approach is used.
Zorya, second in Ukraine but overshadowed by Shakhtar’s class, will be outmatched against a motivated Manchester United looking to forget their earlier mishap against Feyenoord. Considering Fenerbahce needed a late goal to draw with Zorya, United seem set for a powerful performance here. Tip: Manchester United (-1) handicap at 9/20.
Fenerbahce 1/1 | Draw 47/20 | Feyenoord 11/4
The final preview features a fiery battle at Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium, as Fenerbahce take on Feyenoord. The Turkish giants have endured their worst start in a decade this season and struggled to secure a late draw with Zorya in their opener, facing heavy pressure to perform.
Feyenoord, with an unbeaten league record including seven wins, and a Euro victory over Manchester United, look in sensational shape. Their attacking firepower and defensive solidity make them tough to fault. Given the difficulty of away wins in Turkey and Feyenoord’s form, the double chance on Feyenoord at 15/20 is a smart bet.
Quintuple Accumulator Odds: 9.56/10
- Southampton Win: 14/10
- Ajax Win: 6/10
- Shakhtar Win: 11/20
- Manchester United (-1) Handicap: 9/20
- Feyenoord Double Chance: 15/20
Written by Jason Dewey for @Hollywoodbets.
