Outsiders Rangers will find a way past PSV
Five of the eight Europa League round-of-16 ties are available to watch on British television tonight, with the Manchester City and Liverpool matches and three others being broadcast. Here's our verdict on the latter trio...
Spartak Moscow v Ajax (6pm, ITV4)
The Russian capital club failed to carry their impressive Europa League form into the first match of the new Premier League campaign as they suffered a shock 4-0 hammering at the hands of Rostov that will give Ajax fresh hope of progress despite their 1-0 deficit. They are unbeaten in five on their travels and haven't lost in this competition on the road in over two years, so while they look to have too much to do to reach the quarter-finals, a bet on them bowing out with a draw appeals at [3.6].
Rangers v PSV Eindhoven (8.05pm, ITV4)
Walter Smith has proved himself a fine tactician on this stage, despite the criticism of his negative approach, and the Gers have frequently proven capable of grinding out whatever result is required of them, though they will be wary of being beaten at their own game by a side that once won the Champions League by exploiting the away goals rule and penalty shootouts. Under 2.5 goals is an appetisingly [1.78], while we're keeping faith in Rangers at [2.66] to eliminate the Eredivisie leaders.
Villarreal v Bayer Leverkusen (8.05pm, ESPN)
Bayer Leverkusen are [7.2] to qualify after losing out 3-2 in a gripping first leg at the BayArena, a result that puts them in the position of having to score four or win by two goals at El Madrigal to continue their European adventure. Villarreal's only home defeat all season came by one goal so things don't look good for the Bundesliga team in terms of progress but Leverkusen have been beaten just once away in 2010-11 so lay the hosts at [2.2] and consider the visitors at [2.56] with draw no bet.
Like the look of those suggestions? A £5 treble backing the Ajax draw, Rangers to qualify and laying Villarreal pays out £71.15 using the Betfair Coupon...
Published: 17 Mar 2011
Leave a comment