Molde and Shamrock Rovers square off in the Europa Conference League on Thursday evening both still looking for their first win in Group F.
Having both claimed a point from their opening fixtures, defeats on matchday two have left the Norwegian and Irish sides as underdogs to qualify for the knockout stages.
Match preview
In qualifying for the group stage of this competition, Shamrock Rovers, as one of the remaining minnows, have arguably already surpassed expectations in this tournament.
A point at home to Djurgardens IF also kept things ticking over, even if three points felt imperative in the grand scheme of things, but losing 3-0 at Gent has brought Stephen Bradley's side back down to earth.
All things considered, Rovers probably need at least three points from their double-header with Molde to remain in contention for qualification, and Bradley will be encouraged by their recent upturn in form on the domestic scene.
Since being outclassed in Belgium, Shamrock have collected seven points from a possible nine in the Irish top flight, establishing a five-point lead at the top of the standings.
Just one goal was conceded during those three fixtures, and Shamrock will have to show the same resoluteness to get anything from the upcoming contest in Norway.
Although the clubs are locked on the same points, Molde's draw came against Gent and defeat to Djurgardens was a consequence of conceding a last-minute winner.
While Erling Moe would have wanted more from the first two games, his team still feel in good shape as they attempt to collect an expected maximum haul over the upcoming week.
On the domestic scene, Molde are a huge 15 points clear at the top of the table, a result of a 19-match unbeaten streak stretching back to May 11.
Eleven victories have also come in succession, and Shamrock's only ray of hope appears to be Molde keeping just three shutouts in their last seven games.
Team News
Molde will be without David Datro Fofana after the forward was sent off for two yellow cards against Djurgarden.
Despite his lack of goals this season, Matias Bolly could get the nod alongside Ola Brynhildsen in attack.
Magnus Wolff Eikrem is also pushing for an opportunity in the final third, the former Manchester United youngster having been far more productive this campaign albeit from a deeper position.
Bradley could stick with the Shamrock XI which started the win over Sligo Rovers at the weekend, particularly having been able to rest players during the final quarter.
Although Aaron Greene has been a regular in the Shamrock attack all season, his lack of goals could see him remain among the replacements.
Molde possible starting lineup:
Karlstrom; Bjornbak, Haugan, Risa; Linnes, Breivik, Mannsverk, Hussain, Lovik; Brynhildsen, Bolly
Shamrock Rovers possible starting lineup:
Mannus; Gannon, Cleary, Grace; Finn, O'Neill, Watts, Kavanagh; Burke, Gaffney, Byrne
We say: Molde 3-0 Shamrock Rovers
Despite being on the same points in the group, Molde's performances have been far superior. With that in mind, this could be a long night for Shamrock, who may struggle to withstand a team who have already held Gent to a draw in recent weeks.
For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here.
Darren Plant
