The challenge facing Hearts is daunting as they prepare to take on Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League play-off round. The Jambos must overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg, but their struggles in front of goal could make that task even harder. Plzen have a strong defense, having only conceded more than once in one of their last 13 away games. They have kept six clean sheets in eight matches this season, highlighting the size of the challenge facing Hearts.

Hearts’ difficulties were evident in their goalless performance in the first leg, and with Plzen’s solid defensive record, it may be tough for them to find the goals they need to progress in the competition. Plzen’s defense will be bolstered by the freshness gained from a postponed league fixture, while Hearts are dealing with uncertainty and inconsistency under head coach Steben Naismith. The team’s star striker Lawrence Shankland, who had a prolific season last year, is struggling to find the back of the net, having gone five games without a goal.

Shankland’s battle with Plzen defender Robin Hranac will be crucial in determining Hearts’ attacking threat. Hranac, a target for Bundesliga club Hoffenheim, stifled Shankland in the first leg and will be aiming to do so again. Plzen will likely keep things tight at the back, as they have not conceded more than once in any of the 19 European matches Hranac has featured in since coming through their youth system.

Overall, the odds are stacked against Hearts in their bid to progress in the Europa League. Plzen’s defensive solidity and Hearts’ lack of cutting edge in front of goal make it unlikely that Hearts will find the goals they need to turn the tie around. Backing Plzen to concede fewer than two goals seems like a safe bet, given their defensive record and the challenges facing Hearts in this crucial second leg clash.