The Europa League qualifying return leg between Anderlecht and Kairat is largely a formality after their 3-0 rout of the Kazakh side in Almaty. The Belgian club completely dominated the first leg and could have scored even more, while Kairat's performance was marred by a serious goalkeeping error and the dismissal of defender Alexander Shirobok in the first half. Anderlecht now face a home match at Lotto Park, where, with the support of their fans, they are unlikely to miss out on a spot in the overall Europa League.
The visitors' motivation is seriously questionable. Kairat is fighting for the Kazakhstan championship, trailing the leaders by four points, and the European return leg, with the intrigue all but lost, could become a secondary consideration for them. Furthermore, the team has been weakened by injuries and suspensions, including the dismissal of Shirobok and the injured striker Jorginho.
The prediction for this match is a confident victory for Anderlecht, likely with a clean sheet. The Belgians, even with a possible slight rotation, have an overwhelming advantage in class and are in good form.
