Liverpool in to 6/1 to win Europa League after drawing Sparta Prague
Published:Liverpool’s betting odds have been cut to 6/1 to win the Europa League after receiving a kind draw against Sparta Prague in the last 32 of the competition.
Roy Hodgson’s team were previously 8/1 to win the competition before the draw was made, despite finishing on top of Group K.
Some dangerous opposition could still have awaited Liverpool in the second round, including Sevilla and Benfica, but instead they will be satisfied to face last season’s Czech champions.
An added advantage for Liverpool is that they will play their second leg at home.
The draw for the last 16 of the Europa League was also made, with Liverpool facing the winner of the tie between Lech Poznan and Braga if they ease past Sparta Prague.
Both would prove tricky away games, as English clubs have already found out this season.
Manchester City lost in Poland in Group A of the Europa League against Lech, while Arsenal were undone in Portugal against Braga in the Champions League.
Despite this setback, Manchester City still qualified for the last 32 of the Europa League and their price has remained unchanged at 9/2 to win the tournament after drawing Aris of Greece.
Roberto Mancini will be quietly pleased with the draw, but there are reasons why Aris should not be taken lightly.
The Greeks qualified from a group that saw reigning Europa League champions Atletico Madrid eliminated from the competition, while they have never lost a home game in Europe.
Therefore, it is likely that Manchester City will be happy to secure a draw in the first leg away from home and a victory would lead to a last-16 encounter with either Besiktas or Dinamo Kiev.
A £10 bet on Manchester City winning the Europa League could secure a return of £60. New Ladbrokes customers can sign up here for a free £10 bet.
