MANCHESTER UNITED travel to face Neil Lennon's Omonia in the Europa League on Thursday stung by their derby battering.
Erik ten Hag's side had looked like they had turned the corner after wins at home over Liverpool and Arsenal, but they look weak on their travels and they were utterly exposed when they travelled the short distance to the Etihad and lost 6-3.
The result flattered them due to the addition of two late consolation goals and at least they won't have to face anyone of the monster qualities of Erling Haaland on Thursday on the Mediterranean island.
The Nicosia side did superbly to reach the group stages with impressive home and away wins over Belgian side Gent, but their limitations were exposed when Sherif Tiraspol comfortably beat them 3-0 in Nicosia and they then were edged out 2-1 by Real Sociedad in Spain.
United also lost to the Spaniards at home but at least recovered by going to Moldova and beating Sherif.
While United were getting a going over by City, Omonia were cruising to a 2-0 league win at Doxa and the former Celtic boss will have his players absolutely fired up for the challenge of facing the Old Trafford giants.
How the bookies view it
You would need to be a brave man to take this Manchester United team at 2/9 with UniBet. Omonia Nicosia can be backed at 14/1 and the draw is 11/2 with Paddy Power.
Recent head to heads
The clubs have never met before.
Players to watch
Brandon Barker is a man who should be motivated here – the former Rangers and Hibs winger started his career at Manchester City. He scored in Belgium in their shock 2-0 win against Gent and is a big-priced 10/1 with William Hill to net on Thursday.
Anthony Martial did more in a half hour cameo appearance against Manchester City on Sunday than most of his teammates and scored two goals to make the scoreline semi-respectable. He is 21/20 with bet365 to score in Nicosia.
Anything else catch the eye?
Manchester United should clearly be too strong for Omonia, but it has the potential to be an uncomfortable night in a volatile atmosphere.
Lennon will have his side organised and motivated for this and they should avoid the hammering they've been tipped to get. Try them at 23/20 with Coral with a two-goal start on the handicaps.
United's confidence should be fragile after that weekend loss and it could take them time to break down the hosts. No Manchester United goal before the 31st minute at 5/6 with bet365 could be a real runner here.
This UEFA Nations League match between Omonia Nicosia and Manchester United will be played on Oct 6, 2022 and kick off at 17:45. Check below for our tipsters best Omonia Nicosia vs Manchester United prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
