Monaco play host to PSV Eindhoven on Thursday evening

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Monaco play host to PSV Eindhoven on Thursday evening knowing that victory may be enough to book their place in the last 32 of the Europa League. However, PSV can move to the top of Group B with all three points, and the result of this contest could prove pivotal come the end of the group stages.

While Monaco’s domestic campaign continues to falter following a 2-0 defeat at Brest over the weekend, they can at least take solace in the fact they sit atop UEFA Europa League (UEL) Group B. However, their return of just three wins from their last nine UEL group games hardly inspires confidence (D4, L2) – interestingly all four draws during that sequence ended 1-1.

The principality of Monaco hasn’t proven the toughest of destinations for visiting sides in Europe across recent years, though Monaco may well have turned a corner after ending a seven-game losing run in UEFA tournaments at home (excludes qualifiers) with their 1-0 win over Sturm Graz on matchday one, kicking off what’s been a convincing UEL qualification campaign so far.

The gulf in class between the top-two sides in the Netherlands saw the cold light of day as PSV fell to Ajax by a thumping 5-0 scoreline in their last away game, though they did bounce back last time out by scoring five goals themselves against former champions Twente. Rodger Schmidt’s men will now look to avenge the 2-1 defeat vs Monaco in the reverse fixture as they aim to break back into the top two.

Strong travelling PSV have won more UEL away games in the current competition format (2009-present) than all but Villarreal and Salzburg (PSV: W16, D5, L12). Yet, a return of just one clean sheet across their last six competitive trips suggests they may need at least a couple of goals to continue that trend here.

Date: 04/11/2021
Time: 20:45
Venue: Stade Louis II (Monaco)
Pick for this match:
“1” – @ 2.06 ( BETWINNER )