Europa League / Mike Norman / 25 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Mike Norman believes it will be a big surprise if Manchester City do not progress to the last 16 of the UEFA Cup. Best Bet: Back Man City/Man City @ 2.42 (Half Time/Full Time).

At least one English team should make it to the last 16 of the UEFA Cup as Man City are set to field a strong side against FC Kobenhavn on Thursday evening.

City defended dreadfully in the first leg but still did enough to secure a draw and bag two vital away goals. I wouldn't go as far as saying the second leg should be a formality (FA Cup defeat at home to Notts Forest prevents that privilege), but it will still be a big surprise if Mark Hughes' men don't progress. They can be backed at just [1.15] To Qualify whilst their Danish counterparts are available at [6.8].

City's fortunes largely depend on what mood the likes of Robinho, Craig Bellamy, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Elano are in - if they're upbeat they win, it's as simple as that. With Bellamy telling a national newspaper recently that there is no rift between him and the Brazilians then I'd fully expect a decent showing on Thursday - just to strengthen his claim.

Kobenhavn are still in their 10-week winter break, and whilst this should ensure their squad is fresh, it does pose a slight doubt as to whether they will be able to match City fitness wise. Besides the fitness edge, Man City are far superior in quality and [1.53] about a home victory is excellent value. Back Man City/Man City ([2.42]) in the Half Time/Full Time market if you want to enhance your odds further.

The Over/Under 2.5 Goals market may seem a difficult one to assess. Will City take their foot off the pedal if they go a few goals up? I don't think so, and I have every confidence that whichever 11 players are on the field, they will be more than capable of running in at least three goals. Over 2.5 Goals is available to back at [1.96], the same price as Under 2.5 Goals. Over 3.5 Goals makes some appeal at [3.5].

For a Correct Score I'm looking to back 3-0 ([12.5]) and Any Unquoted ([7.8]) as I can see the Danish side giving up the ghost once they realise the tie is dead.

The First Goalscorer will definitely be a Manchester City player (I hope I'm not made to eat my words) but I'd wait to see who is playing before making my selection. I'm a big fan of Elano, and if he starts he should be available to back at around the [10.0] mark. Alternatively, Robinho and Bellamy will be vying for favouritism at around [5.5].