European club football continues on Thursday in the UEFA Europa League, with Lens welcoming SC Freiburg to Stade Bollaert-Delelis in the first leg of their knockout tie. Let’s dive into the key aspects of this matchup and explore the most promising betting tip.
Lens: Rising from the Ashes
After a decade-long absence from European competition, Lens are looking to be regular campaigners on the continent again. Although not enough to keep them in the competition, their recent performance in the Champions League showed a fighting spirit that has carried them into UEFA’s second-tier competition.
A key advantage for Lens lies in their dominance at their home stadium, the Stade Bollaert-Delelis. When they’ve taken the lead in Ligue 1 games there, they’ve been unstoppable, winning a remarkable 10 out of the 12 matches. This potent home form bodes well for them in Thursday’s clash against Freiburg. Franck Haise’s men have also developed a knack for scoring multiple goals at home, evident in their recent 3-1 victory over Strasbourg, the sixth time they have scored multiple times in the last eight home games.
Adding to their home advantage, Lens are currently riding a hot winning streak. They’ve won three on the bounce, netted six goals and kept two clean sheets since their January 14 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. This impressive form should give them the confidence to extend their undefeated run against SC Freiburg.
SC Freiburg: A Rocky Road
SC Freiburg, in contrast, have been having a rough time, especially on the road. Their away record in the Bundesliga is moderate at best, with three wins and seven defeats from their 11 away assignments. Their recent 3-0 loss at Borussia Dortmund further highlights their struggles away from home.
Head coach Christian Streich has been trying to turn the tide without success. The Bundesliga outfit has been sieving goals, conceding nine while scoring only twice during their run of three straight defeats since their narrow 3-2 victory over Hoffenheim on January 20. This defensive vulnerability, coupled with key absences in their defence for Thursday’s clash, could be a significant disadvantage against a high-scoring Lens side.
Betting Tip: Lens to Win
15/02 21:00 Lens – Freiburg Lens to win @ 1.80 (Betano)
Given the current form and performance of both teams, our betting tip would be to back Lens for a win. Their consistent performance, especially at home, combined with Freiburg’s defensive struggles and key absences, make Lens the more likely team to secure a victory.
Here are three reasons why you should consider this betting tip:
1. Lens’ Home Advantage: Lens has shown remarkable consistency at home, winning 10 out of the 12 games in which they have taken the lead in the French top flight.
2. Freiburg’s Defensive Struggles: Freiburg have conceded nine goals in their last three games, indicating a vulnerability in their defence that Lens could exploit.
3. Lens’ Winning Streak: Lens are on a three-game winning streak, scoring six goals and keeping two clean sheets, which could give them the momentum they need to secure a victory.
The odds for Lens to win are an enticing 1.80 on Betano, which also offers a ‘2 Goals Ahead‘ early payout feature that ensures a win if Lens builds a two-goal lead anytime in the match.
Lens vs Freiburg - Lens to win @ 1.80
