This article presents Europa Conference League Quarter-final predictions and analysis for the matches scheduled on 9 April 2026, as the competition reaches a crucial phase. With a place in the semi-finals at stake, teams are expected to combine attacking intent with strong defensive structure. Clubs like Fiorentina and Shakhtar Donetsk bring European experience, while sides such as Crystal Palace and AZ Alkmaar aim to make a deep run. Tactical discipline, form, and key moments will likely play a decisive role in these tightly contested fixtures.
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Rayo Vallecano vs AEK Athens
Rayo Vallecano are in fluctuating form, with several poor results in the last period. The team has problems with consistency, especially in attack, where the level of performance is not up to scratch. They rely on Garcia, Espino and Perez for their attacking play, but their contribution is limited.
They are solid in defence, but make mistakes under pressure. Their playing style is combative with a focus on counterattacks. They reached this stage by eliminating Samsunspor with a total score of 3:2, securing a 2-goal lead in the first leg and losing 0:1 at home.
AEK Athens are in good form with several convincing victories and consistent performances. The team plays disciplined football and has a good balance between attack and defence. The attacking players Koita, Jovic and Kutesa stand out, as they regularly contribute goals.
Defensively, they are solid and well organised. Their playing style is a combination of control and quick attacks. They reached this stage by eliminating Celje with a total score of 4:2, securing their lead in the away match by winning 4:0.
AEK are in better form and more stable, whereas Rayo have problems with their effectiveness. I don’t expect the visitors to lose this match and to draw.
X2 (Draw or AEK Athens to Win)
Predicted CS: 1-1
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Crystal Palace vs Fiorentina
Crystal Palace are in solid form with several positive results, especially at home where they play more organised. Timothy relies on Sarr, Lacroix and Nketiah, who bring energy and contribute to the attack. They are good at creating chances, but are not always effective.
Defensively they are relatively stable, but they do lose concentration at times. Their playing style is direct with quick transitions. They reached this stage by eliminating AEK Larnaca with a total score of 2:1, drawing in both matches, and their place in this stage was secured by Sarr with a goal in the 99(th) minute.
Fiorentina are in good form and have played consistently in recent months. The team has a well-organised game with a quality attack led by Gudmundsson, Ndour and Piccoli. They are dangerous on the offensive and know how to score, while defensively they are stable. In the last period they improved their form and have not lost in 5 matches in all competitions.
They play disciplined and tactically mature away games. Their style of play is composed and they control the tempo. They reached this stage by eliminating Rakow with a total score of 4:2, controlling both matches.
This is a close match, but Fiorentina have a slight advantage due to their better form and greater consistency in their play. However, I expect both teams to have their moments during the match.
GG (BTTS-Yes)
Predicted CS: 1-1
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Mainz vs Strasbourg
Mainz are in excellent form with a series of positive results and stable play in recent periods. The team plays very organised, especially at home, where they play with great self-confidence. They rely on Amiri, Lee Jae-Sung and Hollerbach for creativity and goals.
Defensively, they are solid and well organised. Their playing style is disciplined with quick transitions. They reached this stage by eliminating Sigma Olomouc with a total score of 2:0, winning the second leg at home after a draw in the first match.
Strasbourg are in fluctuating form with mixed results in the last period. The team has quality, but lacks consistency in their play. Offensively, Godo, Enciso and Panichelli stand out, and can create problems, but the finishing is inconsistent.
Defensively, they are reliable, especially away from home. In the last few matches, they have had more draws than wins. Their playing style is technical with an emphasis on controlling the tempo. They reached this stage by eliminating Rijeka with a total score of 3:2, with a one-goal lead secured in the first away match.
This is a match where Mainz have the advantage due to their form, home ground and better organization. Strasbourg can put up a fight, but it will be difficult for them to maintain consistency throughout the match.
1 (Mainz to Win)
Predicted CS: 2-0
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Shakhtar Donetsk vs AZ Alkmaar
Shakhtar Donetsk are in good form, having secured several important victories in recent months. The team plays disciplined and organised football, especially in defence, where they are reliable. In attack, they rely on Kaua Elias, Isaque Silva and Nazaryna, who provide a stable contribution.
They are not overly effective, but they know how to take advantage of opportunities. The style of play is tactical with control and quick transitions. They reached this stage by eliminating Lech Poznan with a total score of 4:3, securing a two-goal lead in the first match.
AZ Alkmaar are in good form with an attacking style of play and high efficiency. The team has a strong attack led by Mijnans, Jensen and Parrott, who regularly score goals. They have certain weaknesses in defence, especially against stronger teams.
In the last period, they have achieved good results with several convincing victories. Their playing style is offensive with high pressing and quick attacks. They reached this stage by eliminating Sparta Prague with a total score of 6:1, winning both matches.
This is an interesting and open match where both teams have their chances. AZ play aggressively offensively, while Shakhtar are more tactically sound. I expect an unpredictable match with at least three goals.
3+ (Over 2.5)
Predicted CS: 2-2
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Kindly be advised that all odds are accurate as of the publication date and time indicated, and they may be subject to alterations.
This article is part of Conference League Quarter-Finals.
→ View full Conference League Predictions
