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Peter Green - August 6, 2019
Torino vs Shakhtyor Soligorsk
Europa League Qualification
Date: Thursday, 8 August 2019
Kick-off at 20:00 UK/ 21:00 CET
Venue: Stadio Olimpico di Torino (Turin).
Torino really should be thanking their lucky stars, as they get prepared for their continental challenges. AC Milan was booted out of the competition despite ending up in the qualification spots, due to Financial Fair Play rules set by UEFA – giving the opportunity for the hosts of the day to represent the country in the tournament.
To pile on their luck, the squad is at home and is taking on a vastly inferior group, coming from the Belarusian Premier League. The away handicap, coupled with the apparent inferiority of the league they are a part of, rightfully places Shakhtyor as the underdogs of the tie.
The Italians were unbeaten in 21 of their last 23 overall matches and scored three or more goals in their last six games on the trot. They are also on a streak of six straight wins and is on an even better stretch in front of the home crowd.
The squad won their last seven home fixtures on the trot and registered two or more goals in 11 of their last 12. They had also scored three or more goals in their last six home ties and kept clean sheets in two of their last three.
In addition to this form, they have the home advantage, and most importantly, the experience and quality that comes from being a part of the prestigious Serie A, as opposed to that of the top division from Belarus.
As such, expect the home team to record a convincing win this weekend, and in all probability, finish off the battle in the first leg itself.
