After a thrilling five-goal encounter in Switzerland last week (3-2 Young Boys), Galatasaray and Young Boys face off again in Istanbul, with both teams vying for a coveted spot in the Champions League group stage. Both sides are reigning champions of their respective domestic leagues, and the first leg lived up to expectations with plenty of excitement, culminating in a late penalty that gave the Swiss side a valuable lead to carry into this second leg.

Galatasaray’s recent European fixtures have been synonymous with goals, boasting an impressive 66 goals across their last 20 matches – averaging over three per game. Remarkably, 70% of these games have seen both teams score. At home, Galatasaray have been particularly prolific, finding the net in 16 consecutive matches at RAMS Park. However, their defence remains a concern, as they have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 13 games.

On the other hand, Young Boys have struggled defensively as well, going seven matches without a clean sheet and managing just one shutout in their last nine European outings. This season, 83% of their matches have ended with both teams scoring, further supporting the expectation that both sides will find the back of the net in this decisive clash.

Austrian side RB Salzburg have positioned themselves strongly for a place in the Champions League group stages after a 2-0 away victory in the first leg against Dynamo Kyiv. Managed by former Liverpool assistant Pep Lijnders, Salzburg have been in remarkable form, remaining unbeaten in all seven matches since Lijnders took charge. Their attacking prowess has been undeniable, with 22 goals already this season, averaging over three per game.

Salzburg’s impressive unbeaten streak now stretches to 14 games, and they head into the second leg with plenty of confidence, especially considering Dynamo Kyiv’s struggles in Europe. The Ukrainian side have lost 11 of their last 17 European matches, with only two wins against Rangers and Partizan Belgrade. Moreover, Kyiv’s defensive frailties are evident, as they have kept a clean sheet in just 15% of their last 20 European encounters.

With Salzburg in such strong form, it’s expected they will continue their run and be too strong for their Ukrainian opponents, and they look good value to secure the win here.