NEC's high line and Groningen's direct receivers create a fast contest over the first exit. Both sides can produce a second chance after the initial delivery. Genoa and Venezia should be more patient, with an early home spell against direct away breaks. The ability to sustain supply after that opening spell will shape the result.
NEC can press, overload wide and find Linssen or Chery, but their Zagreb win still required repeated Crettaz saves. Groningen can escape through Schreuders into Van der Werff and Van Bergen, with Willumsson and Clement adding the next connection. NEC have a short turnaround after Zagreb, while Groningen's named receivers retain their recent roles. If NEC's first press is beaten, Groningen have the delivery and follow-up to answer a home goal. That's why I'm siding with Groningen to avoid defeat.
Genoa can push its wingbacks forward and seek Osmajić, Messias or Traoré on the next ball. Venezia can sit compact, then use Sohm to find Adams or Yeboah and the far wingback. Genoa's recent early goals have not been followed by sustained second-half chances, while Venezia's current two-forward exit has produced usable box access under Nicola. Genoa's virus-affected attacking options and Venezia's returning squad pieces change the available roles in this matchup. I expect Venezia to retain enough direct supply to answer Genoa's early pressure. That's why I'm siding with Venezia to avoid defeat.
