Founded in 1912 and based in Gibraltar, St Joseph’s FC are one of the oldest and most consistent sides in the Gibraltar National League. Although they’ve never progressed past the early stages in Europe, they have gained valuable continental experience over recent years and often rely on structure and discipline at home.
Key Players:
Strengths: St Joseph’s are compact and well-drilled, typically playing in a 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1. They prioritize defensive solidity and quick counter-attacks, especially on home turf where conditions often favour the hosts. The team plays with cohesion and tactical awareness, though squad depth remains limited against stronger European sides.
Based in North Belfast, Cliftonville FC are Northern Ireland’s oldest football club, with a proud history and regular appearances in European competition. After a strong domestic campaign in the NIFL Premiership, they enter the 2025/26 season with real ambition and a youthful yet competitive squad.
Key Players:
Strengths: Cliftonville typically use a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, combining fast ball movement with high pressing. They possess greater squad depth and physicality compared to most of their early qualifying opponents. Set pieces are a key weapon, while their structured defensive play helps them manage tight European fixtures.
While St Joseph’s will look to stay organized and frustrate Cliftonville early on, the visitors’ superior tempo, squad quality, and European experience should give them the edge. Expect Cliftonville to dominate possession and gradually create clear chances through patient buildup and wing play. St Joseph’s may find it difficult to break out of their own half for sustained periods.
Cliftonville are expected to dominate this match with their European experience, tactical discipline, and superior squad quality. St Joseph’s struggle to create chances against stronger opposition, especially in continental competitions.
Total score Under 3.5
Handicap -1.5 for Cliftonville
Both teams to score - No all offer strong value.
For extra coverage, Asian Total Under 2.75
Place a bet on the line of 1xBet with odds of 1.55 for a Cliftonville win.
