In perhaps the most intriguing game of Aberdeen’s season so far, Derek McInnes’ men will have to overcome an away goal and another round of European flight delays if they are to be victorious.
Ahead of the match in Slovenia, McInnes has played down any disruption caused by the delays and promised that his players are more than ready for the encounter.
They will have to be. In a tough match at Pittodrie, NK Maribor proved they are no push overs. While Aberdeen may have looked the better side for much of the match, it was the Slovenians who scored the first goal, before Jonny Hayes equalised in the final minutes.
This time around, Hayes will not be there to come to the rescue. Early reports suggest the Irish winger is carrying an injury and will not be available to play. Hayes, a star man for the Dons last season, will be a big miss.
Ahead of the game, Maribor boss Darko Milanic has been fanning the flames by complaining about Aberdeen’s style of play. Both he and stopper Rodrigo Defendi branded the team long-ball merchants after the draw at Pittodrie.
McInnes was quick to respond, saying his team play to win and suggesting that his approach may have helped get under the skin of the Slovenians.
He told the Evening Express: “It pleases me to hear them commenting about our style of play. I’m fine with it and I expected their comments. We play to win the game and to suit the best way to do that.”
He added: “If we play a team that defends deep, and gets a lot of protection from the players in front of the defence, we have to find a way to get to them. And we did.”
Tactics are not the only pressure point in tonight’s game though. After last week’s contest, thirteen supporters – of a travelling support of around 20 – and three local fans were raided at an Aberdeen hotel in connection with an alleged fight.
While there was no trouble at any point during the first leg of the contest and both sides were commended for their behaviour during the match, the arrests and alleged brawl after the game may well make for a tense atmosphere inside the stadium ahead of kick-off.
The match will also carry an extra depth following the death of two young Maribor players earlier this week. The youngsters lost their lives after a car crash in their home nation and this, their first fixture since the tragedy, is sure to be an emotional one for players and fans alike.
Dons staff have paid tribute to the youngsters involved and this week offered to cooperate fully with any wishes Maribor may have to mark the tragedy ahead of the game.
Speaking on Monday, Aberdeen Chief Executive Duncan Fraser said: “I spoke with my counterpart Bojan Bon this afternoon and have passed on our condolences from all of the Aberdeen family.
“This puts everything into perspective. The clubs have developed an excellent relationship in the build up to the games and we will cooperate fully with any wishes that NK Maribor may have to mark this tragedy.”
