Analysis of Borac Banja Luka
Borac Banja Luka is competing in European competitions for the first time in its history. Despite not having an outstanding performance in the Conference League group stage, they managed to qualify for the playoffs. The team finished with a record of two wins, two draws, and two losses. The most significant achievement for Borac was securing enough points to finish in 20th place, just one point above the elimination zone. However, their form in the final two matches of the group phase was concerning, as they suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Shamrock Rovers and were held to a goalless draw at home against Omonia Nicosia.
After the winter break in Bosnia-Herzegovina’s domestic league, Borac returned to competitive action with a 3-0 victory over Čelik in the Bosnian Cup. In the Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Borac is currently in second place, just three points behind the leaders, demonstrating that they are in decent form. Their key player this season has been Đorđe Despotović, with 12 goals, and he will be expected to lead the attack alongside Enver Kulašin and David Čavić, who provide support from the wings. New signings such as Viktor Rogan and Max Juraj Celik have added depth to the squad, and goalkeeper Filip Manojlović is set to continue in place of the injured Nikola Ćetković.
Despite some weaknesses in their group-stage performance, Borac has the potential to surprise their opponents with their offensive capabilities and solid defense. Their main challenge will be overcoming the pressure of competing against strong European teams.
Analysis of NK Olimpija Ljubljana
NK Olimpija Ljubljana, like Borac, is also making its debut in the knockout rounds of a major European competition. The Slovenian side finished the group phase in 14th place with a record of three wins, one draw, and two losses. They started the group stage with an impressive three wins out of their first four matches, defeating LASK Linz, HJK Helsinki, and Larne without conceding a goal. However, their form dipped later on, suffering a heavy 4-1 loss to Cercle Brugge and finishing their group campaign with a 0-0 draw at Jagiellonia Białystok.
Under the management of former Real Madrid midfielder Viktor Sánchez, Olimpija has been in good form domestically. In February, they won both their Slovenian league matches, a dominant 5-0 victory against Primorje and a 2-1 win over Koper, which has boosted their confidence heading into the Conference League.
Although they will be without forward Pedro Lucas, who is recovering from a knee injury, Raul Florucz, who has scored 12 goals this season, will likely lead the attack, although he has yet to find the net in the Conference League this season. Alternatively, new signing Alex Tamm, who has scored twice in two games since joining in January, could take up the central striker position. Olimpija has added significant depth with other winter signings such as Jurgen Celhaka, who could play alongside Diogo Pinto and Agustin Doffo in midfield.
Olimpija has shown remarkable consistency in their away form, having lost only one of their last 18 away matches across all competitions (W12 D5). This excellent record on the road will give them added confidence as they travel to Banja Luka for the first leg.
Betting Tips
- Both teams to score (GG) – Both teams have strong attacking options, and each side should create opportunities to score. Borac is strong at home, while Olimpija has shown good offensive form in their away games.
- Total goals 2-3 – Expect a balanced match with a few goals, as both teams are capable of scoring, but also have solid defensive units.
- Olimpija to win or draw (X2) – With only one loss in their last 18 away matches, Olimpija is likely to avoid defeat in Banja Luka. Their strong away form makes them favorites for at least a draw in this fixture.
- Double-digit corners – Both teams play an attacking style of football, which could result in a higher number of corners during the match. Expect both teams to generate opportunities from wide areas.
