Following a 2-0 win for Slovan Bratislava in the first leg, Shamrock Rovers have a mountain to climb if they want to advance to the next round of UEFA Champions League qualifying.
The League of Ireland Premier Division champions welcome the Slovakian champions to Tallaght Stadium on Tuesday, hoping to overturn the deficit.
Shamrock gave a good account of themselves in last week’s first leg, yet they were ultimately outclassed by Slovan.
Brazilian forward Rafael Ratao bagged a brace in Bratislava, finding the back of the net either side of half-time to hand his side a healthy advantage.
It is worth pointing out that last week’s loss was only Shamrock’s second defeat in seven games in all competitions (three wins, two draws).
Having picked up 11 wins, five draws and three losses in the League of Ireland Premier Division this season, Shamrock currently find themselves at top the table.
Not only are Shamrock the second-highest scorers in the Irish top-flight, but they also boast the second-best defensive record in the division.
On the flip side, Slovan Bratislava are still waiting for the domestic league to start, with their opening match scheduled for later this month.
The first leg against Shamrock Rovers was their first competitive encounter for almost two months, having played four friendlies in June.
Thanks to three wins and a draw last month, Slovan head into the second leg on an eight-match unbeaten streak in all competitions (seven wins, one draw).
They have scored 20 goals in that time (2.5 goals per game) while only conceding four goals along the way (four clean sheets).
Head-to-head: Shamrock Rovers and Slovan Bratislava hadn’t faced each other until they met in the first leg of this tie.
As a result, Slovan will be looking to maintain their 100% record against Shamrock when they travel to Ireland.
Team news: Shamrock Rover have no fresh injury concerns heading into the second leg of this all important UCL qualifier.
However, Slovan will be without attacking midfielder David Holman and left-back Lucas Lovat due to injury.
Shamrock gave a good account of themselves in the first leg, meaning they could get something from the second leg on home soil.
Forebet predicts that Shamrock and Slovan will play out a low-scoring draw on Tuesday, seeing Slovan advance to the next round.
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