Against All Odds: Finnish nightmare for Torino

Can HJK turn this group around?

It's been the perfect week for Paul Robinson thus far and he's looking to make it four from four in the Europa League this evening.

HJK Helsinki v Torino
Thursday November 6, 18:00 GMT

HJK Helsinki are the champions of Finland for the sixth consecutive year after their domestic campaign drew to a close at the end of October. They had 10 points in hand over their nearest rivals and they can now focus on this competition.

It hasn't exactly been a great start to their Europa League group for Mika Lehkosuo's side as they've lost all three of their outings to date, leaving them rock bottom of Group B. 'Klubi' haven't even scored a goal, but it is worth noting that two of their three fixtures have come away from home.

At the Sonera Stadium, HJK rarely get beaten and they even held APOEL there in a Champions League qualifier back in July. They have nothing to lose and it's not like they were thrashed out of sight in the reverse fixture a fortnight ago.

Torino had a wonderful campaign last year, but that was largely down to the now departed, Ciro Immobile. Without the Italian striker, the Turin based club are only 12th in Serie A, although they are top of this group having taken seven points from a possible nine.

Giampiero Ventura's men won their two home games and drew their sole away match. Despite their short price for tonight's affair, a draw wouldn't be too bad a result for them in terms of the group and I doubt they'll fancy a trip to the cold climates of Finland.

There is a gulf in class between these two teams, but it's not as large as the odds suggest. That's why, with Torino trading at around the 1.728/11 mark, I have to make it my lay of the day.  

Recommended Bet
Lay Torino v HJK Helsinki @ 1.728/11

2014 P/L (1pt each bet)

Wagered: 298 pts
Returned: 313.78 pts
P/L: + 15.78 pts (after commission)
(2013 P/L: + 3.80 pts)
(2012 P/L: + 9.60 pts)