UEFA Europa League Semifinals Predictions Today: UEL Best Bets for May 7

At almost any point of this season, I would back Aston Villa to beat Nottingham Forest and progress to the next round. However, the recent form of both sides suggest that the visitors should be favored here.

Aston Villa have lost three in a row in all competitions, scoring only one goal in the process. The team is in a slump right now and even lost against Spurs in the EPL this weekend, which was Tottenham’s second victory in the calendar year.

Unai Emery might be a Europa League specialist, but his side is very shaky right now. Aston Villa struggle to create chances and even their top players look completely out of form.

On the other end, we have a Nottingham Forest team that is enjoying an amazing spell in all competitions. After multiple managerial changes and chaotic moments this season, the team is flying right now. They’ve won six games in a row and are unbeaten in the last ten. That run includes a draw and win against Villa, by the way.

Morgan Gibbs-White might the most in-form player in Europa right now (yes, he is that good), and you can feel the confidence in this team. Their place in the Premier League was essentially secured with the 3-0 against Chelsea over the weekend, so all eyes will be on the Europa League.

That’s why I’m happy to back Forest to progress at -130 in my Europa League predictions today.

Defense is usually the key to success at this stage of knockout competitions, which is the reason I like Freiburg’s chances in this match. The German side has only conceded two goals in six Europa League games at home.

They will be confident in their chances to keep a clean sheet against a Braga squad that will be missing multiple players because of injuries. Ricardo Horta’s absence will be the main issue, as he’s been critical for the team’s creativity.

In comparison, Freiburg are fairly healthy and should be fresh after rotating multiple players in their latest Bundesliga match.

Overall, I expected to see odds closer to -200 for a home win, so grabbing the -145 for Freiburg makes the most sense. If you want a higher price, you could back the German side to win to nil, available at +145.