HJK – Larne : Preview & Prediction
HJK Helsinki (Finland) host Larne FC (Northern Ireland) in the first leg of their Champions League 1st qualifying round tie. The match takes place on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. and should be a lively affair, but with a certain advantage for the home team, more accustomed to international competition.
HJK Helsinki reached this stage after winning the Finnish championship last year, finishing in 1st place with 58 points, one more than second-placed KuPS Kuopio. HJK is the clear favorite in the knockout phase and it would be very surprising if they failed to qualify for the 2nd round. Larne are a very inexperienced team at international level, having failed to qualify for either the Champions League group stage or the Europa League. They achieved the greatest feat in the club’s history last season when they won the Northern Ireland league title, ensuring their presence in this knockout round.The “home” factor is always very important in Champions League qualifying matches.
FC Larne lack experience at European level.
HJK have conceded just 4 goals in their last 9 home games.
Larne have not won any of their last 3 official matches.
The home team’s greater experience should make the difference at this stage of the competition.
HJK – Larne : Betting Tips
OVER 2.5 GOALS Odds: 2.25
