Domzale takes on Balzan at Sportni Park in the UEFA Europa Conference League on Thursday (July 13). Both teams are eager to make an impact in the competition and showcase their talents on the continental stage.
Domzale is returning to the tournament after narrowly missing out on qualification last season. Their debut in the 2021-22 edition saw them reach the third qualifying round, where they faced a tough defeat against Norwegian side Rosenborg, with a final score of 8-2. However, as veterans of continental competitions since 2005-06, Domzale is no stranger to the UEFA stage.
Securing a fourth-place finish in the 2022-23 Slovenian PrvaLiga, Domzale earned their qualification for the UEFA Europa Conference League. Their last triumph in the top flight came in the 2007-08 season. Unfortunately, they will be without their key defender Tilen Klemencic, who is recovering from a knee injury. New recruit Mario Krstovski is expected to step up and assume the crucial centre-forward role.
On the other side, Balzan is making their UEFA Europa Conference League debut, although they have previously competed in five editions of the Europa League, reaching the second qualifying round in the 2018-19 season. Unlike Domzale, who have played three friendly matches in preparation for their continental campaign, Balzan has only played one friendly against Radnicki Kragujevac, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
Securing a fourth-place finish out of 14 teams in the 2022-23 Maltese Premier League, Balzan earned their ticket to the UEFA Europa Conference League. Ahead of their continental campaign, they have made eight new signings, including Nigerian striker Peter Olawale and Brazilian centre-back Andre Fausto, strengthening their squad for the upcoming challenge.
Fans can expect an exciting clash between two standout performers from last season. Domzale’s Franko Kovacević is eager to replicate his brilliant performance, having emerged as the team’s top scorer and ranking fourth overall with an impressive tally of 12 goals. Kovacević also led his side in assists, providing six throughout the season.
Meanwhile, Angel Torres was a standout player for Balzan in the previous season. He led the team’s scoring charts with an impressive 14 goals and ranked as the league’s third-top scorer. Jonathan Debono also showcased his skills, securing a spot in the top ten charts with five clean sheets.
Domzale enters the match as favorites, backed by their superior quality and home advantage. However, Balzan is ready to challenge their opponents and leave a mark in their UEFA Europa Conference League debut. Football fans can look forward to an exhilarating encounter as both teams aim to make their mark on the continental stage.
Domzale vs Balzan Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
- The two sides have met thrice, with Domzale winning each time, scoring seven goals and conceding thrice.
- Domzale have won twice, drawn once and lost twice in their last five home games.
- Domzale have lost five times in their last ten games across competitions.
- Balzan have won thrice and drawn twice in their last five road outings.
- Domzale have won twice, drawn once and lost twice in their last five games, while Balzan have won thrice, drawn once and lost once in the same period.
Form Guide: Domzale: D-L-W-L-W; Balzan: D-W-W-L-W
