Naftan are still sitting pretty at the bottom of the Belarus league table after the summer break and it looks like their troubles are far from over. The boys just got hammered 1-3 by Isloch in their first game back and that makes it eight losses from eleven matches so far. They have managed three draws this season but all of them came at home so there is a tiny bit of hope when they host Baranovichi this Friday. The visitors are not exactly firing on all cylinders either and sit just above the drop zone after eleven rounds.
Team Form
Baranovichi have actually picked up some decent momentum heading into this clash with only one loss in their last six outings across all competitions. They grabbed three wins and two draws in that run including a solid 2-1 victory over Minsk last time out. Naftan on the other hand are still searching for their first win of the campaign and that is putting massive pressure on the squad. Both sides have been shipping goals like nobody’s business with more than two conceded on average per game.
- Naftan: eight defeats in eleven games, three home draws this season
- Baranovichi: three wins two draws one loss in last six matches
- Both teams average over two goals conceded per 90 minutes
Tactical Analysis
Expect a wide open game because neither side knows how to keep a clean sheet. Naftan will look to use their home advantage and crowd support to nick an early goal but their leaky backline could be exposed on the counter. Baranovichi have shown better organisation lately and they will be happy to sit deep before hitting on the break. The midfield battle will be key as both teams struggle to control possession and that could lead to plenty of end to end action with chances at both ends.
Factors like the pitch condition after the break and possible rotation due to fatigue could also play a big role in how the game unfolds. Naftan might throw everything forward in search of that elusive first win while Baranovichi will focus on staying compact and grabbing points on the road.
Betting Proposal
The smartest play here is the handicap of zero on Baranovichi at odds of 1.75 because these lads are in better shape and should at least avoid defeat away from home.
Overall this fixture has all the makings of a high scoring affair given how both teams defend so the over goals market could also be worth a look for those who like a bit of value.
