In the new season the champions from Northern Ireland are still unbeaten and that has got fans in these parts buzzing with confidence. They handled the Super Cup on penalties against Coleraine and then brushed aside Tre Fiori from San Marino in the first round of Champions League qualifying. Still the level of opposition has not been the strongest so far and many are wondering how they will cope when real quality lands on their doorstep.
Team Form
Larne have never won a single match in Champions League history before this campaign and they have leaked plenty of goals along the way. On the other side Red Star Belgrade are regular visitors to this stage of the competition because they keep winning the Serbian league. Last season they fell at the playoff hurdle against Pafos from Cyprus after brushing aside Lech Poznan and Lincoln Red Imps. Their start to the domestic campaign was a statement 5-0 win over Macva with five different scorers finding the net which shows the squad is sharp and ready.
- Larne unbeaten in all competitions this term
- Red Star have reached the group stage in strong years
- Northern Irish side still new to this level of European football
Tactical Analysis
Red Star like to control games with quick passing and they have the depth to rotate players without losing quality. Larne will probably sit deep and look for counter attacks but their lack of experience against top sides could see them struggle once the Serbians turn up the pressure. The visitors have scored freely in recent outings and their attacking options look sharp for the trip across Europe.
Local fans know that when a big Balkan side travels to a smaller league the gap in class usually shows early. Red Star are expected to dominate possession and create numerous chances while Larne will need everything to go right just to stay in the tie.
Betting Proposal
The smartest types point to backing the visitors on the handicap because Red Star should win by three goals or more on the night. The odds around 2.10 for the away side minus 2.5 goals look fair given their recent scoring form and the step up in class for the home team. Expect a comfortable night for the Serbian champions.
