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Stoke v Maccabi Tel Aviv, KO: 20:05, Live on ITV 4

In a tough-looking group Stoke have made a fine start to their Europa League campaign and will look to strengthen their position when bottom club Maccabi Tel Aviv visit the Britannia Stadium.

The Israeli outfit currently sit second in their domestic league but suffered a disappointing 2-1 away loss at the weekend, and they now must visit one of the most difficult grounds to win at in English football. Tony Pulis' side are unbeaten on home soil this term, defeating Liverpool and Fulham and drawing with Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester United, whilst in this competition they've already seen off decent outfits Hajduk Split, FC Thun and Besiktas.

Defender Robert Huth and striker Kenwyne Jones are set to start following a period out of the side, whilst Pulis will stick to his rotation policy by playing Thomas Sorensen in goal.

Match Odds

Stoke have suffered some disappointing defeats away from home already this term but in front of their own fans they have been very impressive, and everything points to another home victory this evening. Maccabi are a slick passing side, but the Israeli outfit are likely to become frustrated when the hard-working Potters close them down and constantly get balls into the box. Stoke can play some good football themselves, but they won't have to when their effective long-ball game works once more.

As well as backing the home side at 1.48 to win the game, a wager on Stoke/Stoke at 2.2 in the Half Time/Full Time market is also recommended.

Correct Score

Stoke have scored seven goals in their three home Europa League games this term, whilst the only team to breach their solid defensive unit domestically at the Britannia were free-scoring Manchester United. If you believe the Potters will win this game comfortably then the likelihood is they will achieve it without conceding, so covering the 2-0 (7.6) and 3-0 (12.0) options in this market makes sense.

Recommended Bets
Back Stoke HT/Stoke FT @ 2.2
Back 2-0 @ 7.6 & 3-0 @ 12.0 Correct Scores

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