The second leg of the Europa League round of 16 brings together SC Freiburg and Genk in what promises to be a tense and tactical battle. The German side will be hoping to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg, while the Belgian visitors aim to protect their narrow advantage and reach the quarter-finals for the first time in nine years. With both teams showing solid defensive records in the competition, this encounter at the Europa-Park Stadion could be a close and low-scoring affair.

SC Freiburg’s Recent Form and Key Stats

SC Freiburg approach this decisive match under pressure after a series of disappointing results. They have failed to win any of their last four matches across all competitions, losing three of them. Their most recent outing ended in a 0-1 defeat against FC Union Berlin on March 15, a result that extended their poor run and dented confidence ahead of this European clash. Despite this, Freiburg’s overall Europa League campaign has been respectable, with a record of 5 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses, averaging 1.1 goals scored and only 0.6 conceded per game.

At home, Freiburg have been difficult to beat in Europe, remaining undefeated in four Europa League matches this season. Their defensive organization has been a key strength, and they have not lost at half time in 25 of their last 27 matches. However, their recent struggles in front of goal are a concern, as they have failed to score in three of their last four fixtures. The absence of Maximilian Eggestein, who was sent off in the first leg, further weakens their midfield balance and attacking transitions.

Goalkeeper Noah Atubolu has been a standout performer, keeping four clean sheets in the competition, while the attacking duo of Vincenzo Grifo and Igor Matanovic have combined for 19 goals this season. Freiburg’s hopes of progressing will largely depend on their ability to rediscover their scoring touch while maintaining defensive discipline.

• Europa League record: W 5 · D 2 · L 2


• Average goals scored: 1.1 | Average conceded: 0.6


• Last 5 matches: 1 win, 1 draw, 3 defeats


• Haven’t lost at half time in 25 of their last 27 matches

Genk’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Genk arrive in Germany with confidence after a strong run of results. They have won three of their last five matches, including a 1-0 victory over Sint-Truiden on March 15, which served as ideal preparation for this decisive European fixture. Their Europa League campaign has been impressive, with 8 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses, averaging 1.7 goals scored and 1.1 conceded per match. The Belgian side’s consistency and attacking intent have been key to their success so far.

In the first leg, Genk dominated possession and created numerous chances, registering 17 shots compared to Freiburg’s six. Their defensive solidity has also been notable, with four clean sheets in the competition, two of which came thanks to goalkeeper Tobias Lawal. However, they will be without Zakaria El Ouahdi, suspended after accumulating cards, a significant blow given his four goals in the Europa League, including the winner in the first leg. Defender Mujaid Sadik remains doubtful due to illness, which could further test their depth at the back.

Genk’s attacking threat often comes from quick transitions and set pieces, with Yuito Suzuki proving decisive—four of his six goals this season have been opening strikes. The visitors will likely rely on their compact shape and counter-attacking efficiency to frustrate Freiburg and secure progression to the next round.

• Europa League record: W 8 · D 1 · L 4


• Average goals scored: 1.7 | Average conceded: 1.1


• Last 5 matches: 3 wins, 0 draws, 2 defeats


• Last head-to-head: 1-0 win on March 12, 2026

Freiburg vs Genk Tactical Overview and Prediction

This second leg is finely balanced, with Freiburg needing to attack but wary of conceding an away goal that could end their hopes. The Germans’ recent lack of cutting edge in attack contrasts with Genk’s solid defensive structure and ability to strike on the counter. Both teams have shown strong defensive numbers in the Europa League, suggesting that goals may be scarce once again.

The first leg ended 1-0, and the underlying statistics point toward another tight contest. Freiburg have conceded just five goals in the entire competition, while Genk have allowed seven. Both sides rank among the best defensive units in the tournament, and their recent matches have tended to produce low scorelines. Given these trends, a cautious and tactical battle is expected, with neither team likely to take excessive risks early on.

While Freiburg will rely on home support to overturn the deficit, Genk’s current momentum and confidence could prove decisive. The Belgian side’s ability to manage narrow leads and their recent form make them slight favorites to advance, even if the match itself remains close and low-scoring.

Freiburg vs Genk prediction by BetMines:
Under 2.5 goals with 57% probability.