Iberia 1999 barely eliminated underdog Flora 5-4 on aggregate in the previous tie and lack European experience. I am backing Slovan Bratislava to win in Yaya Toure’s debut in his managerial career.
Key Stats
- Iberia 199 have lost 2 of their last 4 matches (UCL qualifiers).
- Slovan Bratislava have won 4 of their last 5 matches.
No Previous Meetings
This is going to be the first head to head clash between Iberia 1999 and Slovan Bratislava.
Georgian Champions Failed to Impress in the Previous Round
Iberia 1999 have successfully defended the title in the Georgian top flight last season, finishing just two points ahead of Rustavi.
The new campaign started with a 1-0 win over Dinamo Tbilisi in the Georgian Super Cup semifinals, but lost the grand finals to Torpedo Kutaisi on penalties (2-2 in regular time).
Iberia 1999 faced Flora in the Champions League first qualifying round and gained advantage in the first tie 3-2 in Estonia. A 2-2 draw at home last week was enough to advance, Nika Sikharulashvili netting a brace.
Yaya Toure Set for his Debut
Slovan Bratislava were the most dominant side in Slovakia last season and easily defended the title there, finishing ten points ahead of Dunajska Streda.
They parted ways with coach Vladimir Weiss earlier this summer and appointed Yaya Toure who is about to have his first job ever as the head manager.
Their results during the pre-season were quite mixed, beating Pafos 3-2 and Slavia Prague 1-0, losing to Puskas Academy 1-0, while clash against the Serbian champions Red Star Belgrade ended 1-1.
Team News
Hosts have no reported injuries or suspensions ahead of this clash. Amiran Dzagania has been their top contributor this season with five goals.
Winger Nino Marcelli is ruled out for the visitors, recovering from a muscle injury. Slovenian veteran striker Andraz Sporar is expected to lead the attack.