Strasbourg face a pivotal night at the Meinau as they welcome Rayo Vallecano for the second leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League tie, needing to overturn a one-goal deficit. The French side will have to do it without key forward Emanuel Emegha, who has been ruled out with a muscular injury. The setback is a significant blow for Gary O'Neil's squad, though there is a glimmer of hope that Emegha could return if Strasbourg manage to reach the final.

Stepping up to lead the line in Emegha's absence is Julio Enciso, who is expected to wear the captain's armband and spearhead the attack. The Paraguayan will be tasked with providing the cutting edge that Strasbourg desperately need to keep their European dream alive.

There is positive news in midfield, however, with Valentín Barco returning to bolster the engine room. His presence should add creativity and energy as Strasbourg look to control the tempo against their Spanish opponents.

Defensively, Guéla Doué has been battling illness over the past fortnight and, while he is included in the matchday squad, he is not expected to start. Instead, Abdoul Ouattara is tipped to get the nod at right-back, providing fresh legs and defensive solidity.

Here is the predicted starting XI for Strasbourg: Mike Penders in goal; a back four of Ben Chilwell, Ismael Doukouré, Andrew Omobamidele, and Abdoul Ouattara; a midfield duo of Valentín Barco and Samir El Mourabet; with an attacking line of Martial Godo, Sébastien Nanasi, and Diego Moreira supporting lone striker Julio Enciso.

With the tie finely balanced, Strasbourg will need a disciplined and determined performance to keep their European campaign alive. Every player on the pitch will need to be at their best to overturn the deficit and book a place in the next round.