Utrecht vs Sheriff Tiraspol Prediction & Picks - Europa League

Prediction published on 7/31/25, 10:04 AM  by Erik Gibbs in Europa League Picks

FC Utrecht meet Sheriff Tiraspol in a Europa League match this Thursday. FC Utrecht enter the second leg of this UEFA Europa League qualifier in a commanding position after securing a 3-1 away win in Moldova. Despite conceding first, the Dutch side responded with composure and intensity, scoring three unanswered goals to take control of the tie. This performance was particularly impressive considering it's the beginning of their competitive season. Utrecht have looked organized and disciplined in both defense and transition. They also had a productive preseason, where their attacking patterns and fitness levels steadily improved.

The momentum has been clearly building for Utrecht. Their high-pressing style disrupted Sheriff’s rhythm in the first leg, and they will be confident of maintaining that approach in front of their home fans. Utrecht finished fourth in last season's Eredivisie, earning their place in Europe with solid, consistent play.

Recent performances have shown resilience; they’ve been conceding fewer goals and showing better tactical discipline under Jans. Playing at Stadion Galgenwaard, where they traditionally perform well, they’ll be looking to finish the job and progress to the next round.

Sheriff Tiraspol, on the other hand, have seen a dip in form at the wrong time. The Moldovan champions are winless in their last four matches across all competitions, including the first-leg loss to Utrecht. That defeat was followed by a 3-2 domestic loss, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities that continue to plague the team.

Sheriff’s issues stem largely from an unsettled backline and missed opportunities in the final third. In the first leg, they started brightly and scored the opening goal, but a lack of composure and sloppy defending saw them concede three goals, two of which came from set pieces. If they want any chance of progressing, they’ll need a near-perfect performance in the return leg—something recent form suggests is unlikely.