Zalgiris will invite VPS to LFF Stadionas in the second leg of the UEFA Conference League first qualifying round on Thursday. The two teams met in the first leg in Finland last week, which the visitors won 2-1.
Adama Fofana scored in the first half to give the Lithuanian side the lead, but Prosper Ahiabu pulled VPS level in the 59th minute. Yury Kendysh bagged the match-winner in the second minute of stoppage time. Mikko Pitkänen was sent off in the second match and will miss this game through suspension.
The hosts made it to the group stage of the Conference League in the 2022-23 season but were eliminated from the playoff round last season. The visitors are back in the qualifiers of a UEFA competition for the first time since the 2017-18 season and they have never qualified for the group stage.
Zalgiris vs VPS Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
- The two teams met for the first time last week. The hosts got the rivalry underway with a win and will look to secure the double here.
- The visitors are winless in their last five games in all competitions, suffering four consecutive losses.
- The hosts have seen conclusive results in their last 11 games in all competitions, with eight wins and three losses.
- The hosts are winless in their last four home games in European qualifiers. They have suffered two defeats and have failed to score in two games in that period.
- VPS have suffered defeats in their last two away games. They have conceded eight goals while scoring just twice.
- The hosts have just two wins in their last 13 games in European qualifiers, with both coming in away games.
Zalgiris vs VPS Prediction
The Green Whites returned to winning ways after two consecutive losses in the first leg last week and will look to build on that form. They are unbeaten in their last nine home games, recording eight wins, and are strong favorites.
The Stripe have seen a drop in form recently, suffering four consecutive losses. They have failed to score in four of their last six away games in European qualifiers.
Considering the Green Whites' better record in European qualifiers and home advantage, they are expected to eke out a narrow win.
Prediction: Zalgiris 2-1 VPS
Zalgiris vs VPS Betting Tips
Tip 1: Result - Zalgiris to win
Tip 2: Goals - Over/Under 2.5 Goals - Over 2.5 goals
Tip 3: At least one goal to be scored in the second half - Yes
Tip 4: Liviu Antal to score or assist any time - Yes