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Linfield will welcome Stjarnan to Windsor Park in UEFA Conference League first-round qualifying on Thursday. The hosts will be keen to get their name on the scoresheet this time around after drawing a blank in the first leg.
Linfield vs Stjarnan Preview
Linfield wasted many goal chances in the first leg and could live to regret it if they fail to sail through to the next round. They eventually lost against Stjarnan 2-0, with Chris Mckee summing up Linfield’s underwhelming night with an own goal. Head coach David Healy will have to adjust his tactics to improve his side’s chances.
The Blues are not new to Europe and appear to have the experience needed to overcome situations such as this. Linfield have been touring Europe since the 1960s and boast 78 matches in UEFA’s flagship competition, the Champions League. However, overturning a two-goal deficit against a spirited Stjarnan might not come easy.
Stjarnan claimed their first win in five matches in all competitions when they defeated Linfield last week. The visitors sit in seventh place in the Besta deild karla – the Icelandic top flight – which resumed in April. Stjarnan have won five matches out of 14 but their Conference League victory could be a morale booster.
The Garðabær-based side will hope to build on their success from the first leg as they head for the return fixture. However, a two-goal lead doesn’t appear insurmountable, especially when playing away from home. Stjarnan were able to contain Linfield thanks to a solid defense and a fluid midfield. However, we are unsure if they could deploy such discipline on Thursday.
Linfield vs Stjarnan Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
- Linfield have won twice and drawn thrice in their last five matches at home in all competitions.
- Linfield have played 141 European matches, winning 11, drawing 23 and losing 44.
- Linfield have scored 10 goals and conceded six in their last five matches in all competitions.
- Stjarnan have won once, drawn once and lost thrice in their last five matches on the road.
- Linfield have won thrice and lost twice in their last five matches while Stjarnan have won once, drawn once and lost thrice. Form Guide: Linfield – W-L-W-W-L, Stjarnan – W-D-L-L-L.
Linfield vs Stjarnan Prediction
Linfield could turn the tide if they claim early goals. However, they will have to keep their composure until the end of the game.
Stjarnan may aim to protect their lead, which could be dangerous, but seeking more goals could expose them to counterattacks.
Linfield are the favorites based on home advantage.
Prediction: Linfield 2-1 Stjarnan
Linfield vs Stjarnan Betting Tips
Tip 1: Result – Linfield to win
Tip 2: Game to have over 2.5 goals – Yes
Tip 3: Linfield to score first – Yes
Tip 4: Stjarnan to score - Yes
