“Bookmaker Ratings” made a prediction for the match of 1/16 finals of the Europa League, Zenit St Petersburg vs Real Betis.
The absence of the disqualified Nabil Fekir is, of course, a big loss for the Spaniards. The Frenchman at Betis leads the game, scores, and delivers. However, even without him, the Spaniards remain a well-trained, organized and bright team; representing a formidable force.
However, Spanish teams often do not give their best in two-round confrontations, especially if the first game is to be played away from home. They prefer to “resolve issues” at home. Actually, the main chance of the Zenith is in the unsetting of the Spaniards.
It is clear that the St. Petersburg team did not have competitive practice for two months, and this is a big minus. In addition, the absence of Azmun, on which much was sharpened in attacking, also does not speak in their favor. In many ways, Semak will have to play from scratch and hope that the Brazilians will come up with something ahead.
Doubtingly, that they will really come up with something. Still, their level allows us to make predictions easily, especially when there are no special prerequisites for that.