Shakhtyor Soligorsk vs Maribor Match Preview

Belarusian champions Shakhtar Soligorsk face Slovenian champions Maribor in this UEFA Champions League first round replay.

The Belarusians will be the formal hosts in the match as these two sides will settle their differences on Turkish soil due to the state of war. In the first match, both sides were very cautious trying to avoid a defeat and keep intact their hopes for qualification.

Shakhtar may be lacking in quality compared to the Slovenians, but this is balanced by their competitive readiness. They have already played twelve league games with fourteen goals scored and just seven conceded which are the fewest of any other team in the Belarusian league. In addition, there was no BTTS in all six games played at home, which shows the team's defensive commitment.

On the other hand, Maribor will jump into their domestic league battle next weekend to defend their title. Their striker and captain Tavares has retired from action and a lack of experience in their attacking line has already been seen. Also, the important midfielder Makoumbou will play in this match, despite the fact that he has already signed with Cagliari, so I don't expect him to give his full strength for the qualification.

Taking into account all the above, I expect a pretty balanced match as these two teams will not take many risks to avoid elimination. I consider the most likely outcome of this match to be a draw which will lead to extra time and I will stake 2 points at 3.05 odds.