Midtjylland vs Hoffenheim: Vitaliy Mazurin's Bet

Midtjylland and Hoffenheim will clash in the opening round of the Europa League. Comparing their recent performances, the Danish team does not look too bad. However, the level of the German club must also be taken into account.

Midtjylland's season began some time ago, having already played nine rounds in the Danish league, where they are predictably at the top. They remain unbeaten with six wins and three draws. Therefore, even a few setbacks do not hinder the Wolves from leading the tournament.

Thomasberg's squad also participated in the Champions League qualifiers, advancing through several rounds against UE Santa Coloma (3:0 and 1:0) and Ferencvaros (2:0 and 1:1). However, they could not overcome Slovan, ending with a 1:1 draw and a 2:3 defeat. Notably, this loss in the return match was Midtjylland's first and only defeat of the season so far.

Hoffenheim, on the other hand, directly entered the Europa League following last season. They have only competed in four Bundesliga matches so far, and the team's results have not been encouraging. Initially, they secured a win against tournament newcomers Holstein with a score of 3:2. However, they then suffered defeats to stronger opponents, losing 1:3 to Eintracht, 1:4 to Bayer, and 1:2 to Union. Consequently, Hoffenheim has dropped to the bottom of the table.

I am inclined to believe in the success of the home team. Yes, the visitors compete in a top league, but what does that matter if Hoffenheim is mostly losing? Midtjylland has experience in European competitions and is in decent form.

Therefore, I am placing my bet on Midtjylland to win at odds of 2.55