This article presents UEFA Europa Conference League Quarter-final predictions and analysis for the matches scheduled on 16 April 2026, as the competition moves closer to the semi-finals. Key ties like AZ Alkmaar vs Shakhtar Donetsk and Fiorentina vs Crystal Palace stand out. Teams such as AEK Athens, Rayo Vallecano, Strasbourg, and Mainz will aim to progress. Tactical balance, form, and key moments are expected to be decisive.
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AZ Alkmaar vs Shakhtar Donetsk
Shakhtar Donetsk enters the second leg with a strong lead of 3:0 from the first match. They were very effective in the second half of that game, taking full advantage of their opportunities by scoring three goals, with Pedrinho and Alisson contributing two goals. Even though the stats showed the match was even, Shakhtar demonstrated more precision in finishing.
The team relies on discipline, good organization, and quick transitions. With such a lead, they will play more solidly and control the game. Their playing style is tactical, focusing on counterattacks.
AZ Alkmaar comes in under a lot of pressure after losing 0:3 and will need to play much more offensively. In the first match, they had some moments of initiative, but they didn’t create enough quality chances and were ineffective.
The team depends on Mijnans, Jensen, and Parrott, who will need to take on more responsibility. They are dangerous offensively when they play with high pressing, but defensively they leave space, which could be a problem against counterattacks. Their playing style is attacking.
Shakhtar Donetsk has a significant score advantage and will play smartly, while AZ will have to take risks. I expect an open match with more chances, especially from the home team.
3+ (Over 2.5)
Predicted CS: 2-1
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AEK Athens vs Rayo Vallecano
AEK Athens is under a lot of pressure after losing 0:3, even though they had more shots and a decent possession rate of 54% in the first match, but they weren’t effective.
The team needs to play offensively and take risks right from the start. They rely on Koita, Jović, and Kutesa for their offense, but they really need to improve their finishing. Defensively, they leave gaps when they attack, which could be a big problem against counterattacks. Their style of play is a mix, focusing on offense.
Rayo Vallecano goes into the second leg with a strong 3:0 lead from the first match. They played very effectively and settled the game early in the first half with goals from Akhomach and Lopez, while in the second half, Palazón confirmed the victory with a penalty. Even though the match stats were relatively even, Rayo showed much better finishing.
The team relies on a fighting style, quick transitions, and making the most of their chances. With such a lead, they will play more controlled and wait for counterattack opportunities. Their style of play is direct and tactically disciplined.
Rayo Vallecano has a big score advantage, while AEK will have to take risks and attack. I expect an open game with more chances.
GG (BTTS-Yes)
Predicted CS: 2-1
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Fiorentina vs Crystal Palace
Fiorentina lost 0:3, and they were not able to score any goals. They had 2 shots on target but couldn’t find the net. The team struggled to create chances during the match. Gudmundsson, Ndour, and Piccoli were the players who tried to make things happen, but it just didn’t work out for them.
They had a tough time against a strong opponent, and it was clear that they needed to improve their performance. The team will have to work hard to bounce back from this defeat.
Crystal Palace played really well and won the match 3:0 against their opponents. They had a lot of chances and were very effective, with Mateta, Mitchell, and Sarr all contributing to the score. Their expected goals (xG) were 3.05 compared to 0.45 for the other team, showing how dominant they were with 17 shots compared to 8.
The team was solid in defense, and they made it hard for the other side to create any good opportunities. Overall, Crystal Palace showed great teamwork and skill, and they will look to keep this momentum going in their next games.
Crystal Palace is looking to continue their good form as they prepare for their next match against Fiorentina, who will need to step up their game after this loss. The upcoming match will be crucial for both teams.
3+ (Over 2.5)
Predicted CS: 2-1
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Strasbourg vs Mainz
Strasbourg is under pressure after losing 0:2, even though they had more possession in the first match (66%). However, they weren’t dangerous enough in the final moments. They only made 2 shots on target and didn’t convert any chances. The team needs to play more offensively and take risks.
They rely on Godo, Enciso, and Boving for offense, but they need to be much more effective. Defensively, they leave gaps, which could be a problem against counterattacks. Their playing style is offensive, trying to control possession.
Mainz goes into the second leg with a 2:0 lead from the first match. They played disciplined and effectively, scoring two early goals through Sano and Posch in the first half. Even though they had less possession (34%), they were more precise in attack with 18 shots and 6 on target.
The team relies on organized play, strong defense, and quick transitions. With this advantage, they will play cautiously and try to maintain stability. Their playing style is tactical and disciplined.
Mainz has a scoring advantage and better organization, while Strasbourg will need to take risks and attack. I give the edge to the home team for the win, but it remains to be seen if that will be enough for qualification.
1 (Strasbourg to Win)
Predicted CS: 2-0
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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
