The goalless draw in the first leg gives both sides equal chances to qualify for the quarter-finals, although the freezing weather conditions in Moscow should favour the home side. After failing to win the first leg at home, Levante face an uphill task in Russia, even if they would go through with any scoring draw.
Rock-solid Rubin
Even without big name signings, Rubin managed to establish themselves as a real force in both Russian and European football, with boss Kurban Berdyev and his cautious style of play producing amazing results over the last few years. It was that kind of approach that helped the team pip Inter to the first place in their Europa League group and also eliminate reigning champions Atletico Madrid in the first knockout round. Rubin then did well to hold Levante to a goalless draw in Valencia before recording a 1-0 win over mighty Zenit in the domestic league. Having done so well after the winter break, the hosts are unlikely to make any changes to their cautious tactics, which should guarantee us another low-scoring encounter. Rubin are expected to dominate the possession, but they won’t be making any unnecessary risks as they are well aware that any goal they concede would prove very costly.
Cristian Ansaldi and Cesar Navas both miss out through suspension, but there are no fresh injury worries for Kurban Berdyev.
Obafemi Martins leaves the club
Sixth-place finish in La Liga last term ensured Levante embark on their first ever European campaign this season, and los Granotes have done themselves proud with their showings in Europa League. Juan Ignacio Martinez’s side managed to qualify from a pretty evenly matched group before eliminating Olympiakos in the first knockout round. However, the team have been largely struggling for form since the winter break, and the first match against Rubin proved they have no solution for their opponents’ rock-solid defence. With top scorer Obafemi Martins leaving the club to join Seattle Sounders, Levante’s attack will be pretty blunt in Russia, which is why they can be expected to continue the dismal scoring run that saw them fail to register a goal in three of last four fixtures in all competitions.
Important midfielder Michel misses out through suspension, but Christian Lell returns to the side after sitting out weekend’s match against Getafe through injury.
Verdict
With Rubin always playing extremely cautiously and Levante desperately lacking quality up front, there is every chance we will see another scoring match, especially as the freezing conditions and artificial surface at Luzhniki Stadium will make things even more difficult for both sides. The hosts are definitely closer to winning this match, with 1-0 or 2-0 the most likely results.
Top pick: Levante not to score 2.20 (6/5) @ Ladbrokes
Alternative pick 1: Home win 1.83 (5/6) @ BetFred
Alternative pick 2: Rubin to win to nil 3.00 (2/1) @ SkyBet