Europa League awaits Anderlecht

Christian Crowther picks out bets for three of Tuesday's Champions League final group encounters...

Malaga v Anderlecht, Tuesday 19:45, Sky Sports Interactive, Match Odds: Malaga 2.1, Anderlecht 3.8, The Draw 3.75

Having recently watched Anderlecht in the flesh, albeit in the Belgian top flight, there is no doubting they are a useful side who play attractive football. Nevertheless, the step up in class required in the Champions League has seen the Belgium title holders come up just a little short of the qualification mark for the knockout stages. Now they are in a direct shootout with Zenit - locked on four points apiece - to see who will claim the Europa League berth. In Anderlecht's advantage is Malaga's recent dip in form, which has culminated in them losing their last two games. Added to this, the already qualified Spaniards have a tough stretch of games coming up in La Liga, taking in Real Madrid and Barcelona in the next five fixtures, so it's likely that they will rest key personnel. An earlier draw in the San Siro proves Anderlecht are capable of a result here.

Recommended Bet: Back the draw @ 3.75

 

AC Milan v Zenit St Petersburg, Tuesday 19:45, Sky Sports Interactive, Match Odds: AC Milan 2.7, Zenit St Petersburg 2.88, The Draw 3.45

For all their multi-million pound investment, Zenit St Petersburg's campaign has fallen flat on its face with Hulk's signing among the most unsettling factors. Now they face a last-day battle for the consolation of a Europa League place at the San Siro against a dramatically improved AC Milan side from the one that beat them 3-2 in Russia two months ago. Since securing their passage with a win away to Anderlecht last time out, they have gone on to post a win over Italian champions Juventus in Serie A and a 3-1 come-from-behind victory over formidable hosts Catania. With five goals in his last four appearances, Milan largely have Stephan El Shaarawy to thank for this upturn in fortunes. Milan will not want to relinquish any momentum against the Russians.

Recommended Bet: Back AC Milan to win @ 2.7

 

Real Madrid v Ajax, Tuesday 19:45, Sky Sports 4, Match Odds: Real Madrid 1.35, Ajax 10.5, The Draw 5.9

Jose Mourinho's men put their domestic woes behind them on Saturday with a massive derby win over city rivals Atletico, albeit one that has done little to hush the speculation over the coach's future. Cristiano Ronaldo, who else, set Real Madrid on their way with a trademark free-kick before Mesut Ozil secured the points in the second half. Ajax are the next visitors to the Bernabeu and the Dutch side have a terrible record in recent meetings with the Merengues; losing all five encounters over the last three seasons by an aggregate of 16-1, with the latest defeat inflicted in a 4-1 scoreline in October. Madrid may be through, but 16 goals in their last five home games suggest that Ajax could be in for more punishment.

Recommended Bet: Back Real Madrid to score three or more @ 2.01

 

Bet HERE !

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