Europa League: Basel vs Saint Etienne preview

Basel are the dominant force in Swiss football and they are on the right track to win yet another domestic trophy. The RotBlau are leading the chase for the Super League title and they are 15 points clear of second-placed Grashopper at the moment. Urs Fischer’s team are on a five-game winning run in the national championship ahead of the Europa League game against Saint Etienne and they are eager to give fans yet another reason for celebration on Thursday evening. Basel outclassed Vaduz 5-1 at the weekend, but Saint Etienne are likely to pose a much bigger threat for the hosts than their previous rivals. The RotBlau suffered a 3-2 loss to les Verts in the first leg, meaning that they need to adopt an attack-minded approach in the return leg. Marc Janko was rested in the Super League game at the weekend, but the experienced forward is likely to lead the line for the hosts against Saint Etienne and he should pose a big threat for the visitors.

Boetius and Sporar both miss the game with injury, while Calla is doubtful and he faces a late fitness test. Coach Urs Fisher has no other injury concerns ahead of the Europa League clash.

Six-game unbeaten run

Following a 3-2 win over Basel Saint Etienne shared the spoils with Olympique Marseille in the Ligue 1 derby, but it has to be noted that les Verts conceded the equalizing goal in the dying minutes of the match. Anyhow, the team extended their unbeaten run to six game in all competitions and they will be looking to defend their slim lead in the tie against the RotBlau when the two teams take on each other at St. Jacob Park on Thursday evening. Christophe Galtier’s troops are brimming with confidence ahead of the trip to Switzerland, but they will have to be at their sharpest in the return leg if they are to avoid defeat to Basel. Saint Etienne recorded only one win in previous away matches in the Europa League and the team generally struggle on the travels. Anyhow, the Ligue 1 outfit are likely to adopt a defence-minded approach in the return leg.