Everton FC: Back in Europe, but for how long?
By Paul Taylor
Regardless of who Everton face in the third qualifying round for the Europa league, they will be favourites to advance to the playoff stage.
So, now Everton know who they will face in the third qualifying round for the Europa League – sort of. As reported by BBC Sport, they will play either Slovakia’s Ruzomberok or Brann of Norway.
Brann will be considered favourites to play Everton, as they hold a 1-0 lead, with the second leg to be played in Norway. Regardless, the Blues will host the first leg of their third round tie at Goodison Park on 27 July, with the second leg to be played on 3 August.
Whoever the Toffees face, they have been handed a favourable draw. An aggregate win will see them advance to the playoff round.
In theory, Evertonians will not be too concerned about who they play. However, there is something to be said for facing Brann.
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That’s because the two sides previously clashed in the 2008 UEFA Cup. Everton had little trouble over the two legs, winning by an aggregate score of 8-1 and advancing to the last 16.
In any event, it could be intriguing to see a rematch and compare the progress of both clubs. For what it’s worth, Brann are currently five points off top spot in Norway’s Eliteserien, with a game in hand on the league leaders.
Meanwhile, if Ruzomberok can come back to spring a surprise result in Norway, there is no competitive history between them and Everton. Ruzomberok have actually been around for 111 years, but didn’t win their first trophy until 1997, when they clinched their domestic double.
What kind of success are you predicting for Everton in Europe this season? Further, where does it rank in your list of priorities for the 2017/18 campaign? Share your thoughts in the comments section.