Aston Villa - Olympiakos predictions and free betting tips [02/05/2024]

The UEFA Conference League is becoming a fascinating competition, though it is still perceived somewhat as an International Nations League, facing criticism worldwide. Fortunately, we have the pleasure of looking forward to the semi-finals, featuring rather strong teams. In the first pair, Aston Villa will attempt to outdo Olympiacos. 

Anticipated Team Lineups

Aston Villa: Olsen; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Bailey, Luiz, McGinn; Rogers; Duran, Watkins
Olympiacos: Tzolakis; Rodinei, Restos, Carmo, Ortega; Horta, Chiquinho, Hezze; Fortounis, El Kaabi, Podence

Aston Villa

Almost certain is Emery's squad commitment to qualify for the Champions League, but they still need to win against Brighton in the next round to secure a spot as the English representative in a revamped format of the best European club competition. Aston Villa faced challenges in overcoming Lille in the Conference League quarter-finals, simply put, they weren't their best in the two matches against the "Dogs".

Despite the series of penalties, the important thing is that they passed the French, whose play seemed more compelling. Aston Villa attempts to perform compactly in every duel to solve multiple seasonal tasks: penetrate the Champions League and win the Conference League. Emery's players are so far achieving these goals, but it's crucial not to falter at the worst possible moment, especially in the Conference League, as they are almost solid in the Premier League table position. 

Olympiacos

The Greek club is fighting for the championship in the country and might risk losing out on European competition next season. Thus, the Conference League isn't the only contest that attracts special attention from the players and the team staff from Piraeus. In the Conference League quarter-finals playoffs, Olympiacos, led by José Luis Mendilibar, made it past Fenerbahçe, which is in an uncertain state after all the disputes regarding Trabzonspor and its fans.

Nevertheless, it doesn't concern Olympiacos, more so since they only won the Turkish team through penalties, after leading 3:0 in the first match, then conceded 2 goals, and the Turkish team managed to make the return match more successful in terms of result after regular time but still didn't make it to the Conference League semi-finals. Olympiacos' squad is fairly robust by standards of its Super League and the third-tier European competition.

Match Prediction: Aston Villa vs Olympiacos

The "Both Teams to Score" option may be considered, and a draw would not be out of the question for this match.

Prediction for the Total Goals in the 2nd Half

One might try taking Over 1.5 after the break when both teams could start to better understand proper gameplay, having adapted somewhat to their competitor after the first half.