Union Berlin can move into second place in Group D of the Europa League by beating Braga on Thursday with a kickoff at 9:45 pm.
Union Berlin’s spot in the Europa League is still in jeopardy after they lost to Malmo in their first two matches of the season.
However, they have won their last two matches against that same team, giving them a chance to get out of this situation on Thursday without needing to rely on other teams.
Domestically, they are still at the top of the Bundesliga after 11 games despite falling 2-1 away to VfL Bochum at the weekend.
Few people expected that result, given that Union Berlin was playing VfL Bochum, who currently have the fewest points in the league.
Although Braga is not expected to defeat Hertha Berlin this week, a draw would put them in a strong position for second place in Group D.
They would need only one point against Malmo next week to qualify for the knockout stages of the Europa League. It would be no small feat for a club the size of Braga, who continues to punch above its weight domestically and on the European stage.
Indeed, they have never won the Portuguese Primeira Liga and have only once finished second. But that is where they are in the table after 10 games this season.
Union Berlin vs. Braga Head to Head
Both sides are yet to face each other and this marks their first encounter. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Bochum 2-1 Union Berlin
- Union Berlin 2-0 Heidenheim
- Union Berlin 2-0 Dortmund
- Union Berlin 1-0 Malmo
Away
- Estoril 0-2 Braga
- Felgueiras 1-2 Braga
- USG 3-3 Braga
- Braga 0-1 Chaves
Union Berlin Team News
Union Berlin will likely be without Andras Schafter for their Champions League clash with Arsenal. The midfielder was sent off against Malmo in the previous round. Otherwise, Fischer has a fully fit squad to choose from and may restore Julian Ryerson or Genki Haraguchi to the starting lineup after they only featured as substitutes against Bochum.
Braga Team News
Braga has no injury concerns going into the game, and Jorge can field a full-strength side. Ricardo Horta will captain the team from left back. He has been capped five times for Portugal.
Prediction and Odds
This match will be tense and hard-fought, as both sides know that a victory will ensure their place in the next round of the competition.
- Home Win
- Goals Under 3.5
- No Score: Away
