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Genk faces an uphill battle when they host Olympiacos in the second leg of the Europa League third qualifying round. Having lost the away leg in Greece 1-0, the Belgian side needs to win by two clear goals to advance. Anything less, and it will be Olympiacos progressing to face FK Cukaricki in the playoffs.

The Greek giants hold a slender advantage thanks to a first minute goal from Kostas Fortounis last week. However, Genk returned to winning ways domestically with a 1-0 victory over Cercle Brugge on Sunday. So they will enter this game with renewed confidence as they aim to overturn the deficit in front of their home fans.

Genk’s Recent Struggles

After losing the Belgian league title in dramatic fashion last season, Genk has struggled to find form in recent weeks. They suffered the agony of losing in a penalty shootout to Servette in the Champions League second qualifying round. That led to them being demoted to the Europa League playoffs.

Genk are also winless in their last four competitive home matches, which will be a concern ahead of Olympiacos’ visit. Their 1-0 loss in the first leg made it three defeats in a row across all competitions.

However, the morale boosting win against Brugge on Sunday could provide the catalyst for a better performance. Leading goal scorer Paul Onuachu came off the bench to score the winner, taking his tally to three goals in four games this term. Genk will need their star striker to deliver in front of goal if they are to achieve a turnaround.

Team News

Genk have injury concerns over defenders Matias Galarza and Mike Tresor Ndayishimiye who both picked up knocks in the first leg. Midfielder Bastien Toma is also facing a race to be fit after missing out at the weekend. However, left back Aziz Ouattara returned from injury against Brugge and should start.

In attack, coach Wouter Vrancken must decide whether to start Onuachu or keep him as an impact sub. Nigerian forward Cyriel Dessers could lead the line, with Onuachu coming on in the second half again.

Olympiacos arrived in Belgium with a near full strength squad. Central defender Ruben Semedo missed training this week but should be available for selection. Manager Pedro Martins is unlikely to make wholesale changes to his first leg line-up.

Giorgos Masouras and Aguibou Camara provided energetic displays in midfield and should retain their places. Veteran striker Youssef El Arabi has a good record in Europe, having scored 23 goals in the Champions League and Europa League combined.

Olympiacos Hard to Beat

In contrast to Genk’s recent struggles, Olympiacos head into this game in confident mood. They won their last three competitive games without conceding a single goal. The Greek champions also had a strong pre-season, going undefeated with wins over notable opponents like Rangers and Besiktas.

Olympiacos are renowned for being defensively well organized and tough to break down. Their disciplined shape and compact lines make them difficult to penetrate. Genk will need to produce an excellent performance to get the better of Pedro Martins’ side.

The 1-0 away win gives Olympiacos the luxury of sitting back and absorbing pressure if needed. They can play on the counter attack and exploit the spaces Genk leave at the back while pushing for goals. Giorgos Masouras and Kostas Fortounis have the speed and quality to punish any defensive lapses.

Prediction

Genk 2-1 Olympiacos

Despite Genk’s indifferent form and Olympiacos’ solidity, we’re backing the hosts to produce a spirited display and squeeze through. Playing at home with vociferous backing from their supporters, Genk will raise their game.

Paul Onuachu’s presence could be key, with the tall striker capable of causing problems for Olympiacos’ defense. His aerial prowess will be a useful outlet for Genk as they go direct. We expect Onuachu and midfield playmaker Mike Trésor to step up when it matters and lead their team to victory.

It will be a tightly contested game, but Genk should do enough to overturn the deficit. Back them to make the Europa League playoffs at the Greek champions’ expense.

 

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