Maccabi Haifa vs Gent
UEFA Europa Conference League
Knockout Play-offs
Thursday
15th February 2024
Bozsik Arena
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the UEFA Europa Conference League fixture between Maccabi Haifa and Gent.
Maccabi Haifa vs Gent: Preview
Maccabi Haifa form analysis
They began their campaign with a 0-0 home draw against Panathinaikos in a match where they struggled to break down the Greek side. In November, Maccabi Haifa led Villarreal until late goals condemned them to a 1-2 home defeat. Their next match was very seriously frustrating, experiencing a 0-3 home loss to Rennes where protective issues were uncovered. In any case, Maccabi Haifa showed their soul in returning quickly from that loss. They held Villarreal to a 0-0 draw in Spain, demonstrating improved defensive versatility out and about.
In their final group match, Maccabi Haifa secured the third place finish with a crucial 2-1 win over Panathinaikos in Greece. They raced into a two-goal lead before conceding late to see out the victory. While Maccabi Haifa had some concerning defensive displays that highlighted the need for improvement, their ability to compete with quality opposition and finish strongly after a loss should be commended. Securing third place through grit and spirit in a tough group featuring Villarreal and Rennes was a respectable achievement for the Israeli side.
Gent form analysis
Gent secured an impressive second place finish in their group thanks to a strong offensive display. They began by defeating Maccabi Tel Aviv 2-0 at home through two late goals. Gent then crushed Breidablik 5-0 in Iceland, showing their potency by scoring four first half goals. They faced a tougher test in Iceland in November, battling to a 3-2 win after twice coming from behind. At home against Zorya, Gent was in dominant form again in a 4-1 victory. They raced into a 3-0 first half lead with an attacking masterclass.
Their front three combined for three goals to effectively secure the three points. However, in their final group match, Gent fell 3-1 to Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel. Two early goals put them on the back foot, and despite pulling one back, they couldn’t find an equalizer. While Gent’s leaky defense was occasionally exposed, their free-scoring attack led by Tissoudali carried them to an impressive second place finish. With multiple players notching goals and assists regularly, Gent proved themselves capable of competing with Europe’s best attacking sides. Securing knockout qualification is reward for their thrilling style of play.
Maccabi Haifa vs Gent: Prediction
More than 2.5 goals were scored in Maccabi Haifa’s last five UECL results. This figure is more than 3.5 in Gent’s last five UEL matches. Therefore, we have every reason to anticipate a high scoring fixture.
With just a loss in their last four European games on the road, Gent are my pick to gain the lead in this first leg. To add to it, their opponents failed to pick up a win at home this season in
Europe.
