Michael Owen: Europa League Preview

You’ll be hard pushed to find a first leg tie that was as open as Antwerp v Rangers last Thursday.

It was tremendous to watch as a neutral, however, Rangers fans must have been quite frustrated with their sides defensive display. That was unlike the Gers this season, although in the end, they got the result they needed.

Four away goals are a lovely cushion and it means Antwerp have no choice but to have a right go.

However, playing like that will inevitably leave you vulnerable to being hit on the counter. If that materialises, I think Steven Gerrard’s side will win on the night and book their place in Friday’s last 16 draw.

Despite going a goal behind, Arsenal fought back to gain a credible draw in last weeks 1^st leg. That was always going to be a tough fixture, so full credit to the Gunners for coming away with a vital away goal.

Again, I think this will be tight. However, I do feel Arsenal have just enough quality on the night to get themselves through.

It was goal-less between these two last week, but I think it could open up in the 2^nd leg.

It’s not the first time we’ve seen a cagey European 1st leg, and there could be arguments on both sides as to who it benefits more. Of course, if Slavia can get in front at the King Power, the away goal is huge.

However, on home soil I really fancy Leicester. They’re a joy to watch going forward at the minute, and I think they’ll have more than enough to get themselves in the hat for Friday’s draw.

United were at their very best last week when they scored a couple of excellent goals on the counter-attack yet again. Those types of away performances have been the cornerstone of Manchester United’s season, so far.

Despite a sluggish start to the season at Old Trafford, they have made some improvement on their own patch, and with a four goal lead going into this, I don’t expect any slip ups.

With that in mind, I think United will win on the night and compound a miserable two legs for the Spaniards.