Shamrock Rovers vs Sparta Prague Predictions - Prague to dominate qualifier

Ralph Staniforth

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Last updated: 22 Jul 2024

Ralph Staniforth 22 Jul 2024

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Shamrock Rovers are winless in 9 of their last 13 matches with six defeats.
Sparta Prague ended last season with a 13-match unbeaten run
Key Shamrock Rovers players are doubtful or suspended

Expired

Sparta Prague have scored 2+ goals in their last 8 away matches (Getty Images)

Shamrock Rovers vs Sparta Prague Preview

Shamrock Rovers shouldn't be much of a match for an in-form Sparta Prague side. I am backing the visitors to win this comfortably.

Shamrock Rovers vs Sparta Prague Preview
Head to Head
Shamrock Rovers Form
Shamrock Rovers Injuries & News
Sparta Prague Form
Sparta Prague Injuries & News

Shamrock Rovers have conceded 2+ goals in 3 of their last 6 home matches
Sparta Prague have covered a -1 handicap in 5 of their last 8 away matches
Sparta Prague have scored 2+ goals in their last 8 away matches

Head to Head

These sides will meet for the the first time in this UEFA Champions League qualifier.

Shamrock Rovers Form

Shamrock Rovers are winless in nine of their last 13 matches with six defeats.

The Irish side edged past Víkingur Reykjavík 2-1 on aggregate in the previous Champions League qualifying round. Rovers were held to a 0-0 first-leg draw before a 2-1 victory at home in the return fixture.

The Hoops then lost 1-0 in the FAI Cup against Bohemians after conceding a 69th-minute winner.

Shamrock Rovers Injuries & News

Midfielders Markus Poom and Aaron McEneff and forward duo Graham Burke and Rory Gaffney are doubtful.

Midfielder Jack Byrne is suspended.

Sparta Prague Form

Sparta Prague will enter the Champions League qualification second round after winning the Czech First League.

The Czech side ended last season with a 13-match unbeaten run in all competitions, including 10 victories. Sparta started their new campaign on Friday with a 2-1 win over FK Pardubice.

Lars Friis’ side conceded first against Pardubice and hit back with 24 shots and 64% possession. Matej Rynes and Victor Olatunji struck in each half to complete the comeback.

Sparta Prague Injuries & News

Midfielder Kaan Kairinen is ruled out.

Verdict

Shamrock Rovers v Sparta Prague

Shamrock faces a tough Champions League test against an in-form and free-scoring Sparta Prague side. There is value in backing an away handicap in this clash.