The UEFA Champions League group stage is heating up, and one of the most intriguing matchups this week is Crvena Zvezda vs PSV. Both teams are fighting for crucial points to keep their European dreams alive. In this article, we’ll break down the form, team news, and key stats to help you make an informed prediction for this exciting clash.
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Crvena Zvezda Preview: Home Advantage Crucial
Crvena Zvezda have struggled in the Champions League this season, managing just one win in six matches. However, their performances at home have been a silver lining. The Serbian champions famously overturned a two-goal deficit against Bodo/Glimt in the playoffs, showcasing their resilience in front of a passionate home crowd.
Their most recent outing in the competition saw them narrowly lose 2-1 to AC Milan, with Tammy Abraham scoring a late winner. Despite their struggles, Crvena Zvezda have shown they can compete, especially at the Marakana Stadium. Their 5-2 defeat to Barcelona earlier in the campaign proved they can score against top-tier opposition, but defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern.
PSV Preview: Struggling for Consistency
PSV Eindhoven have been dominant in the Dutch Eredivisie, but their form has dipped recently. A 3-1 defeat to PEC Zwolle last weekend highlighted their defensive frailties, and they’ve managed just one win in their last four league games.
In the Champions League, PSV have been inconsistent, with two wins, two draws, and two losses. They currently sit just inside the top 24, but their position is far from secure. Peter Bosz’s side is known for their attacking flair, but their reckless style often leaves them exposed at the back. This could be a problem against a Crvena Zvezda team that thrives on home support.
Crvena Zvezda Team News: Jovanovic Suspended
Crvena Zvezda will be without 18-year-old attacker Lazar Jovanovic, who is suspended for this match. However, they have no fresh injury concerns, which is a positive for manager Barak Bakhar.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Gutesa; Mimovic, Djiga, Spajic, Seol; Krunic, Elsnik; Silas, Maksimovic, Milson; Ndiaye
Unavailable: Jovanovic (Suspended)
PSV Team News: Key Players Missing
PSV will be without two key players due to suspension: Malik Tillman and Matteo Dams. Additionally, Isaac Babadi is a doubt with a knee injury. These absences could disrupt their attacking rhythm.
Predicted XI (4-3-3):
Benitez; Karsdorp, Flamingo, Boscagli, Ledezma; Saibari, Junior, Veerman; Bakayoko, De Jong, Lang
Unavailable: Dams (Suspended), Tillman (Suspended)
Questionable: Babadi (Injured)
Key Stats
- Crvena Zvezda have scored in 5 of their 6 Champions League matches this season.
- PSV have conceded in all but one of their group-stage games.
- Both teams have seen over 2.5 goals in 4 of their last 5 matches.
Crvena Zvezda vs PSV Prediction
This match promises to be an entertaining encounter. Crvena Zvezda’s home advantage and attacking threat make them dangerous, while PSV’s attacking style ensures goals at both ends. However, PSV’s defensive issues could be their downfall in a hostile environment.
Prediction: Crvena Zvezda 2-2 PSV
Tip: Over 2.5 goals
The Crvena Zvezda vs PSV clash is set to be a thrilling Champions League showdown. With both teams fighting for crucial points, expect an open and high-scoring game. Don’t miss this exciting matchup—tune in and enjoy the action!
