Hearts 4/9 to win against Birkirkara in Thursday’s Europa League qualifier

Competition: Europa League
Market: Hearts to win against Birkirkara
Odds: 4/9 @ William Hill

Hearts of Midlothian welcome Maltese side Birkikara to Tynecastle Stadium for the second leg of the second round of their Europa League qualifiers on Thursday, and are big favourites to win on home soil to reach the third round.

Hearts drew 0-0 in the first leg at the Infetti Ground, but should fare a lot better in the home clash. The Scottish Premiership side frequently make the playoffs of the Europa League – three times in the last seven years – while their opposition have no real affinity in Europe by comparison.

Birkirkara have struggled in the Europa League qualifiers down the years, failing to make it past the second round despite endless attempts. Last season, it was West Ham United who dispatched of the Maltese outfit in the second round of the Europa League qualifiers, and before then first round eliminations were more commonplace.

As a result, Hearts will fancy their chances of coming out on top with their experience in this situations, coupled with home advantage. Birkikara aren’t good travelers in European matches, and that could well be the telling factory on Thursday. Victory for Hearts will see them into the third round and 180 minutes away from the playoffs.

Bet: Hearts to win against Birkirkara in Thursday’s Europa League qualifier @ 4/9 with William Hill >>