Granada and Molde square off at this stage of the Europa League with both clubs looking to reach the quarter-finals for the first time in their history.

While the visitors stunned German side Hoffenheim in the last 32, Granada pulled off the shock of the round by overcoming Napoli.

Match preview

© Reuters

On the back of their surprise seventh-placed finish in La Liga last season, Granada may have been content with making the Europa League knockout stages.

However, upsetting Napoli has opened doors for Diego Martinez's side, who will be confident of progressing into unfamiliar territory over the coming weeks.

While they will respect their next opponents, Granada may never have a better opportunity to put themselves in contention for a European trophy, particularly with the club only sitting in 10th spot in La Liga.

Despite their 2-1 defeat in Naples, it was yet another display of this team's character with just six goals being conceded in 10 European outings this season.

Although scoring goals in Europe has sometimes been a struggle, 14 strikes have come from their last eight matches in all competitions.

Like their next opponents, Molde would have been satisfied to reach the last 32 having finished second to Arsenal during the group stages.

Nevertheless, Erling Moe will now have eyes on moving into the quarter-finals, something which would mark the first time that a Norwegian outfit has reached the last eight of a European competition since 1997.

Moe would have been realistic about Molde's chances in the away leg against Hoffenheim after a 3-3 draw at home, but a double from Eirik Ulland Andersen secured one of the biggest wins in the club's history.

Without a game in two weeks due to the break in domestic action, Molde should be well prepared to claim another significant scalp in this competition.

Team News

© Reuters

Martinez is missing at least five players for this game, including Luis Milla and Luis Suarez.

While mass changes will not be made, Yan Eteki and Kenedy could be recalled to the Granada starting lineup.

Moe is able to bring Stian Rode Gregersen back into the Molde XI after the defender missed out through suspension last time out.

Martin Bjornbak may only be named on the substitutes' bench with Sheriff Sinyan and Birk Risa impressing in Gregersen's absence.

Granada possible starting lineup:
Silva; Foulquier, Duarte, Sanchez, Diaz; Eteki, Herrera; Kenedy, Quina, Puertas; Molina

Molde possible starting lineup:
Linde; Pedersen, Gregersen, Sinyan, Haugen; Aursnes, Ellingsen; Knudtzon, Eikrem, Andersen; Sigurdarson

We say: Granada 2-1 Molde

Both teams will have to contend with nerves during this tie, particularly during the first leg as they look to remain in contention ahead of the reverse fixture in Norway. While we expect Molde to net an away goal, Granada have enough quality in the ranks to edge their way to victory.

Previews by email