Europa League matchday 8: what can Union and Anderlecht bring?

On 30 January, the last matchday before the elimination rounds takes place in the Europa League. Union and Anderlecht are still at play: can they get the best possible result heading forward? There are still a lot of moving parts in this season of Europe’s second tier of club football. Let’s take a look at the most important games awaiting us.

Ajax Amsterdam vs Galatasaray

30/01 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Ajax Amsterdam

Ajax Amsterdam is just a victory shy of certainty for the knockout round. Against Galatasaray, a victory should be a solid possibility, but it could be an unnecessarily narrow one.

Anderlecht vs Hoffenheim

30/01 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Anderlecht

After last matchday’s ugly slip-up, Anderlecht can’t afford to lose face again. Its home game against German side Hoffenheim is tricky, but Anderlecht is expected to win this one.

AS Roma vs Eintracht Frankfurt

30/01 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: AS Roma

AS Roma isn’t flying high in the Europa League so far. A prestigious victory could revive its campaign. Frankfurt is second at the moment, but the Romans will win at home, nonetheless.

Rangers vs Union

30/01 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Rangers

With Rangers and Union, two teams with 11 points meet. It’s winner takes all, then, in this juicy encounter! Unfortunately for the Belgian team, Rangers will win on home advantage.

Midtjylland vs Fenerbahçe

30/01 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Fenerbahçe

Midtjylland and Fenerbahça both need a win for a chance to make it through. The Danes are currently better ranked, but we predict the Turkish side to return home with the 3 points.

FCSB vs Manchester United

30/01 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Manchester United

Romania’s FCSB has done good, hoisting itself into spot 8 before this encounter. Manchester United is on a mission, though. The EPL giant will keep up its Europa League winning streak here.

Braga vs SS Lazio

30/01 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Braga

Ask Union: Braga is a tough nut to crack! The Portuguese squad faces a formidable foe, though: SS Lazio. All things considered; this is probably down to home advantage. Win for Braga.

Maccabi Tel Aviv vs Porto

30/01 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Porto

Maccabi Tel Aviv and Porto are both in elimination danger, so expect this one to be a hard-fought battle! Porto is the better team, and it should show: the Portuguese will take the away victory.