Freiburg
- Freiburg are on a historic European run, but are coming off successive defeats.
- The hosts are looking to overturn a narrow 2-1 aggregate deficit in their semi-final against Braga to reach a first-ever European final.
- Julian Schuster has implemented a compact, intense 4-2-3-1 system that has seen Freiburg press, recover and counter at pace, carrying the club to its best-ever European run.
- Vincenzo Grifo is their creator-in-chief and set-piece specialist.
Braga
- Braga are looking to prove their continental pedigree and the visitors have shown their European mettle in grinding out results in the knock-out rounds of the Europa League, coming from behind to knock out Real Betis 5-3 on aggregate in the last round.
- Carlos Vicens has installed a pragmatic, defensive unit which plays with plenty of structure and has been consistent in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, currently sat in the top-three.
- Braga have the momentum of their knockout run and a 2 - 1 aggregate lead to edge this one.
Freiburg
- Igor Matanović is a tall, physical focal point for their attack, but couldn’t get much change out of the Braga defense in the first leg.
- Yuito Suzuki has stepped up in Europe with some timely goals, while Johan Manzambi’s runs from wide positions have added a useful dimension to Freiburg’s offense.
Braga
Braga’s talisman, Ricardo Horta , has double-digit league goals and an eye for the big occasion, giving Braga the advantage in this tie.
Betting Insights
- Freiburg are the bookies’ favorites to win at 1.92, while Braga are 4.47 and the draw is 3.69.
- Braga are better value than the bookies have given them, so take 4.47 about the visitors.
- Both teams to score - Yes is priced at 1.83 and that is the pick here as both will be going for it with Braga holding the lead.
Prediction
- Expect a close, competitive game with plenty of intensity.
- Look for a tight finish with Braga's away-goal advantage making the tie particularly delicate for Freiburg.
