- Ilves are unbeaten in three home fixtures (W3, D0, L0).
- Rijeka are unbeaten in their three away games across all competitions (W2, D1, L0).
Ilves face a real test of their mettle
Ilves have been solid at home in all current competitions, going unbeaten in their last three on their own patch (W3, D0, L0), but have been on a slippery slope of late, losing their last two games in a row.
Camilo Speranza's side, who have been led by the Uruguayan tactician since 6 July 2026, are a well-structured team who like to play with two wing-backs and compact midfield triangles. They build attacks patiently and look to overload the wings in order to free up a #10, but have struggled to do enough to break down packed defences in transition in the last two matches.
Ilves lost 1-0 away at AC Oulu in the Veikkausliiga before a 1-0 defeat to HNK Rijeka in the first-leg of this UEFA Conference League Qualification tie, so this game will be a real test of their solidity and determination.
Rijeka have a serious spring in their step
Matjaz Kek, who has been in charge of Rijeka since 7 June 2026, has given this side a sharper edge with a 4-3-3 system that has seen the team press higher and play more vertical passes. That has certainly been the case in their 1-0 win over Ilves, and if they can dominate the midfield battle at Tammela Stadion then they should have the pace and quality to suffocate Ilves.
Rijeka are a big favourite at 39/100 for this game, which is no surprise when you look at their recent form, although it is still a bit of a surprise to see Ilves priced up as big outsiders at 41/5 here, especially given that the draw is 361/100.
Rijeka to win at a canter
Rijeka have won five straight games in a row and have looked imperious in that run, although this is a game where they will need to be at their absolute best to claim victory.
We think that they can do just that against an Ilves side who have been in a wobble of late, and we're edging towards the Croatian side to grind out progression in a controlled and low-risk affair.
Over 2.5 goals at 7/10 and Both Teams to Score - No at 3/4 are also very tempting options given the average of 3.67 total goals scored and 2.00 conceded in Ilves' three home games across all current competitions.
