Match preview

Freiburg enter the second leg knowing this match could define their entire season. Their Bundesliga campaign may only be enough for a Conference League place, but winning the Europa League would secure direct qualification to the Champions League. Domestically, recent results have been inconsistent for the German side, including defeats to Borussia Dortmund and Stuttgart, a draw with Wolfsburg, and the 2-1 loss away to Braga in the first leg.

At the Europa-Park Stadion, though, Freiburg tend to raise their level considerably. Julian Schuster’s side play with far more intensity and confidence at home, especially in Europe, where they have already brushed aside Genk 5-1 and Celta Vigo 3-0 during the knockout rounds. Expect the hosts to press aggressively from the start in search of an early breakthrough that could completely shift the momentum of the tie.

Braga travel to Germany with a narrow advantage after securing a dramatic 2-1 win in Portugal thanks to Mario Dorgeles’ late strike. Under Carlos Vicente, the Portuguese outfit have looked more convincing in Europe than in domestic competition, where they recently slipped against Santa Clara and were then held at home by Estoril.

The visitors are dealing with several important absences, however. Missing players such as Ricardo Horta, Victor Gomez, and Gabri Martinez reduce Braga’s tactical options considerably. While the Portuguese side remain dangerous on the counterattack and comfortable defending deep, their back line has looked vulnerable away from home throughout this Europa League campaign.

Probable lineups

Freiburg: Atubolu, Ginter, Lienhart, Makengo, Treu, Eggestein, Manzambi, Grifo, Höler, Beste, Matanović.

Braga: Gornichek, Lagerbielke, Carvalho, Moscardo, Dorgeles, Gorby, Tyknaz, Lelu, Victor, Salazar, Navarro.

Match facts and head-to-head

Braga claimed a 2-1 win in the first leg with a stoppage-time winner.

Freiburg have won both of their Europa League home playoff matches this season by an aggregate score of 8-1.

Both teams have scored in five of Freiburg’s last six matches and also in five of Braga’s last six.

Freiburg have won their last seven home Europa League matches in regulation time.

Braga have earned no more than four corners in eight of their last ten away Europa League fixtures.

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