Crusaders FC vs Carrick Rangers FC Prediction: Crusaders have the upper hand

With the NIFL season finally ended, Crusaders and Carrick Rangers will now battle for who goes to the Uefa Europa Conference League play-offs as they battle it in a 2-leg game. Crusaders finished fourth in the just concluded NIFL league while Carrick Rangers finished 7th. Both teams met thrice this season and Carrick Rangers emerged victorious in all three encounters and we can expect a similar outcome here on Wednesday. Crusaders appear to be the favorites for the win here, but let us be careful as Carrick Rangers cannot be underestimated especially with their recent form. Please see the carefully prepared tips for you.

Form: LWWLW

Crusaders have had an impressive run in the NIFL premier division this season as they finished 4th place in the league. They are in great shape as they have only lost two games in their last five league games with three wins. Their last game of the NIFL league season ended in a 4-0 defeat to Glentoran but that can be attributed to their focus for this upcoming game against Carrick Rangers as it is more important. A positive in this 2-leg game will allow Crusaders to compete in the Europa Conference League play-offs. Crusaders have shown their strength throughout the season, notching up 19 victories, 7 draws, and 12 losses in 38 league matches played.

Form: WWWWL

Carrick Rangers had a triumphant battle in the premiership relegation playoffs as they totally escaped relegation and will now battle for a place in the Europa Conference League playoffs. They are in great form as they have secured four consecutive league victories in their last four league games. A positive outcome in both legs of this game gives them a chance to compete in the Uefa Conference League relegation playoffs. With a record of 13 wins, 6 draws, and 19 losses in the 38 matches played this season, Carrick Rangers may be heading towards another defeat against the formidable Linfield side.

A critical look at the last 11 games between them produced 8 wins for Crusaders, a win for Carrick Rangers, and 2 draws.

Crusaders will be aiming to crown all their efforts this season with a qualification to the Europa Conference League playoffs as they prepare for this game. Both teams are currently in great form and they have been preparing heavily for this encounter. We expect a very tough game here with goals from both teams and a cagy first half. The likelihood of the Crusaders losing this game is very low, making a win or draw for the Crues our best betting option. 

Both teams have met thrice this season and Crusaders have won all three encounters. Their first encounter this season ended in a 9-0 victory to Crusaders, their second ended in a 0-1 victory to Crusaders while their third encounter ended in a 2-0 victory to Crusaders. We believe that the Crusaders will win or draw in this game.