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This article is part of Football FanCast's The Chalkboard series, which provides a tactical insight into teams, players, managers, potential signings and more... 

Wolves begin their Europa League group stage campaign on Thursday night having sailed through the rigorous qualification stages as if it were a routine thing for them.

Faced with the task of trips to Armenia and Italy, Nuno Santo’s men breezed past every opposition, winning all six of their ties.

Their form in the Premier League has taken a hit as a result, culminating in a shocking 5-2 defeat at the hands of Chelsea last Saturday afternoon.

Now they host Portuguese outfit Braga at Molineux as they look to continue their historic run in the European competition.

But where should Nuno look to exploit?

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On the Chalkboard

Braga are also suffering domestically as they sit 16th in the Primeira Liga with just one win from five matches.

Portuguese journalist Luis Cristovao told Birmingham Live where they are weakest, he said:

“The point where Wolverhampton can trouble Braga is in midfield. Braga is not a very tough team in the midfield.

“In the defensive transition, they have some problems.

“When Braga loses the ball, if Wolves can, in one or two touches, be aggressive going forward Braga will suffer.”

Therefore, it would seem reasonable to suggest that Joao Moutinho’s contribution will decide just how much success Wolves will garner on Thursday night.

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The 33-year-old is the playmaker of the team yet so far this season in the Premier League he just hasn’t got going as we have highlighted here on Football FanCast this week.

In the Europa League, the 5 foot 7 midfielder has already notched up four assists so on the other hand that certainly bodes well going into this match.

Last season, he averaged 2.2 key passes per game which ultimately helped towards him laying on eight assists for his side just proving how influential he is in spearheading Nuno's midfield.

Considering Braga's major weakness, it appears the midfield is where the game can be won or lost. Therefore, the Euro 2016 winner will need to be on his game on Thursday night if Wolves want to start the group stage with a perfect three points.