It is Croky Cup time once again as we edge closer and closer to the big finale!
Anderlecht travel to Antwerp full of hope and confidence after claiming a 1-0 home victory in the first leg.
Tristan Degreef’s first-half goal could well prove to be the difference maker in the whole tie.
Can Antwerp overturn the deficit and reach the final? We will soon find out, but before we do, here are all the latest football odds on betFIRST.
And if you are new around here and wish to place a bet on this exciting fixture, make sure to check out our exclusive Welcome Bet offer!
Antwerp vs Anderlecht Preview
Antwerp enter this crucial match brimming with confidence after beating reigning Jupiler Pro League champions Club Brugge 2-1 at the weekend.
Two goals in the last five minutes of normal time secured the famous victory and it really was the perfect preparation for Thursday’s semi-final second leg.
Anderlecht slipped to a 1-0 defeat at Gent, effectively ending their quest to catch Genk at the top of the Pro League.
A response is needed against an Antwerp side who are now above them in the table.
And the visitors on Thursday will be pleased to see Anderlecht’s inconsistency at home of late.
A 4-1 win over struggling Mechelen was followed up by a shock 4-3 defeat by Bundesliga side Hoffenheim on Matchday 8 of the Europa League, a result which saw Anderlecht surrender a spot in the Top 8 and drop into the play-offs.
A cause for concern? Absolutely.
However, Anderlecht will take solace from the fact that they won 2-1 on their last visit to Antwerp back in August.
A repeat of that scoreline on Wednesday would see them cruise into the final, where they would play either Genk or Club Brugge.
Antwerp vs Anderlecht Odds
*All odds are subject to change
Antwerp open as the slight favourites here at odds of 2.40. An Anderlecht victory is priced at 2.70, while the draw is 3.40.
Antwerp vs Anderlecht Betting Tips
Under 0.5 goals in the first half @ 3.10
While both sides are used to scoring goals, the first half of this match could be tense in the extreme. As such, we are opting for the scoreline to be 0-0 when the teams walk off for the interval.
Draw at half-time @ 2.25
However, if you think there could be a chance for goals in the first half but still think the game will be level, this is a safer avenue to go down.
Half with the most goals – 2nd @ 2.00
Another intriguing market which supports our theory of an entertaining second half when the goals start flying in. Which side will it favour? We will find out on Thursday!
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