FC Utrecht vs Sparta Rotterdam Prediction, Match Preview, Sunday, 25 January

FC Utrecht will face Sparta Rotterdam in an intriguing Eredivisie clash on Sunday, 25 January. The match will be held at Stadion Galgenwaard, giving the home side a familiar advantage as they look to capitalise on home support. Both teams are eager to make an impact in the league standings, and this fixture could prove pivotal in shaping their respective campaigns.

As FC Utrecht and Sparta Rotterdam prepare to go head-to-head, the stakes are high for both sides. Utrecht will be keen to make the most of their home ground, while Sparta Rotterdam will be determined to secure valuable points on their travels. This match promises to be a competitive affair, with both teams having plenty to prove in the Eredivisie this season.

FC Utrecht vs Sparta Rotterdam Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Both Teams to Score – Yes	1.65

Considering the statistics and recent performances, our recommended betting tip for this match is ‘Both Teams to Score’. FC Utrecht’s strong home record and Sparta Rotterdam’s attacking threat, despite their defensive frailties, make this outcome likely.

• FC Utrecht have scored in 89% of their home matches this season, highlighting their consistent attacking ability.
• Sparta Rotterdam have been involved in high-scoring games, with more than 2.5 goals scored in 75% of their last 12 encounters with Utrecht.
• Both teams have shown a tendency to concede, with Utrecht averaging 1.4 goals against per match this season.

Betting Odds

FC Utrecht enter this fixture at Stadion Galgenwaard as favourites, with odds of 1.82. However, Sparta Rotterdam, priced at 3.97, have shown they can be tough opponents, especially away from home. The draw is available at 3.74, indicating a closely contested match is expected.

Betting Tip	Odds
FC Utrecht to win	1.82
Draw	3.74
Sparta Rotterdam to win	3.97

For those considering a wager, the over 2.5 goals market could be appealing given both teams’ recent scoring records. Keep an eye on the odds for both teams to score, as this fixture often features plenty of action at both ends.

FC Utrecht Analysis & Recent Performance

FC Utrecht’s recent form has been disappointing, with four defeats in their last five matches across all competitions. Their most recent outing ended in a 0-2 home loss to Genk in the Europa League, marking their fourth consecutive defeat.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
FC Utrecht	Genk	0 – 2 (Loss)	Europa League	22 Jan, 2026
FC Volendam	FC Utrecht	2 – 1 (Loss)	Eredivisie	18 Jan, 2026
FC Utrecht	Twente	1 – 2 (Loss)	KNVB Cup	13 Jan, 2026
FC Utrecht	PSV Eindhoven	1 – 2 (Loss)	Eredivisie	21 Dec, 2025
TOP Oss	FC Utrecht	0 – 2 (Win)	KNVB Cup	17 Dec, 2025

Recent Form:
In their last five games, FC Utrecht have struggled in front of goal, averaging just 1.00 goal per match while conceding 1.60 on average. This has resulted in a losing streak, with no wins and only one clean sheet, highlighting defensive weaknesses and the need for improvement at both ends of the pitch.

Home Performance:
At home, FC Utrecht have also struggled, with a win ratio of 0% in their last five matches at Stadion Galgenwaard. They have scored an average of 1.20 goals per home game but conceded 1.60, indicating a lack of defensive solidity.

Key Players & Tactics:

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Victor Jensen remains the team’s top scorer with five goals this season. However, Utrecht’s overall attacking output has been underwhelming, and they have struggled to convert possession into goals, as seen in recent matches where they have faced a high number of shots against.

FC Utrecht Suspensions & Injuries

FC Utrecht face several challenges ahead of their clash with Sparta Rotterdam, primarily due to injuries to key players. Most notably, Victor Jensen’s knee injury is a significant concern, as he is expected to be sidelined until early March 2026. His creative influence in midfield will be missed, and Utrecht will need others to step up in his absence.

The uncertainty over David Min and Emirhan Demircan, both listed as doubtful, adds to the team’s selection headaches. Demircan’s illness may require a reshuffle in attack, potentially giving less experienced players an opportunity. This could affect the fluidity and cohesion of Utrecht’s forward play.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
David Min	Unknown	Doubtful
Victor Jensen	Knee injury	Early March 2026
Emirhan Demircan	Illness	Doubtful

With these injuries, FC Utrecht may need to adjust their tactical approach. The absence of Jensen, in particular, could prompt a more defensive midfield setup. Coach Ron Jans may have to consider alternative formations or strategies to maintain balance against a competitive Sparta Rotterdam side. This situation could also impact betting markets, as Utrecht’s squad depth will be tested and their odds potentially affected.

FC Utrecht Key Players

FC Utrecht’s attacking hopes will rest heavily on Sébastien Haller, who is expected to lead the line in the absence of top scorer Victor Jensen. Haller’s physical presence and hold-up play could be crucial in breaking down Sparta Rotterdam’s defence. His link-up with midfielders, especially Dani de Wit, will be vital for creating chances. De Wit’s vision and passing range make him an influential playmaker, capable of dictating the tempo from midfield.

At the back, Nick Viergever is a key leader, and his experience and tactical awareness are essential for maintaining defensive organisation. Viergever’s partnership with Matisse Didden will be important in neutralising Sparta’s attacking threats.

Expected lineup for FC Utrecht

• Goalkeeper: Vasilios Barkas
• Defence: Siebe Horemans, Matisse Didden, Nick Viergever, Souffian El Karouani
• Midfield: Miguel Rodriguez, Can Bozdogan, Alonzo Engwanda, Yoann Cathline, Dani de Wit
• Forward: Sébastien Haller

FC Utrecht Tactics and Formation

FC Utrecht Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Expected 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Sébastien Haller
• Midfield Pivot: Dani de Wit and Can Bozdogan
• Defensive Line: Recent struggles with no clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on possession and high pressing

FC Utrecht are expected to set up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Sébastien Haller leading the attack. The front three is completed by Miguel Rodriguez and Yoann Cathline, who will look to exploit Sparta Rotterdam’s flanks with their pace and dribbling.

The midfield, anchored by Dani de Wit and Can Bozdogan, will focus on maintaining possession and controlling the game’s tempo. Their ability to transition quickly from defence to attack will be crucial, especially given Utrecht’s recent struggles to score.

Defensively, Utrecht’s backline, including Niklas Vesterlund and Mike Eerdhuijzen, has been under pressure, as shown by their lack of clean sheets. The team must improve their defensive organisation to avoid conceding, which has been a recurring problem.

Sparta Rotterdam Analysis & Recent Performance

Sparta Rotterdam have shown strong form recently, winning four of their last five matches across all competitions. Their recent victories include a notable 4-3 away win against Feyenoord, underlining their attacking strength despite conceding three goals in that match.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Feyenoord	Sparta Rotterdam	3 – 4 (Win)	Eredivisie	18 Jan, 2026
Sparta Rotterdam	FC Volendam	1 – 2 (Loss)	KNVB Cup	15 Jan, 2026
Sparta Rotterdam	Heracles	2 – 0 (Win)	Eredivisie	11 Jan, 2026
FC Volendam	Sparta Rotterdam	0 – 1 (Win)	Eredivisie	21 Dec, 2025
Willem II	Sparta Rotterdam	1 – 5 (Win)	KNVB Cup	18 Dec, 2025

Recent Form:
Sparta Rotterdam’s attack has been impressive, averaging 2.60 goals per game over their last five matches, helping them to eighth place in the Eredivisie. The team’s scoring ability is further highlighted by their top scorer, Tobias Lauritsen, who has netted 9 goals this season.

Defensively, Sparta have shown some weaknesses, conceding an average of 1.20 goals per game in their last five outings. However, they have managed two clean sheets, showing occasional defensive resilience. Their away form has been particularly strong, with three wins from their last five away matches, giving them a 60% win ratio.

Overall, Sparta Rotterdam’s combination of strong attacking play and sporadic defensive solidity makes them a dangerous opponent, especially away from home where they have consistently performed well. Their tactical approach focuses on exploiting offensive opportunities, though improving defensive consistency remains key for sustained success.

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Sparta Rotterdam Suspensions & Injuries

Vito van Crooij’s absence due to injury is a significant blow for Sparta Rotterdam, with his return expected in early February 2026. As a key figure in their attack, his unavailability could limit their offensive options against FC Utrecht. The team may need to rely more on Mitchell van Bergen and Tobias Lauritsen to provide creativity and goal threat.

With van Crooij sidelined, Sparta Rotterdam’s tactics may need to be adjusted. Coach Maurice Steijn could consider altering the formation to maintain balance and ensure their attacking threat remains strong. Midfielders Joshua Kitolano and Julian Baas will need to step up in orchestrating play and supporting the forwards.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Vito van Crooij	Unknown	Early February 2026

Van Crooij’s injury may also influence betting markets, as Sparta Rotterdam’s attacking capability is somewhat reduced without him. Bettors may wish to consider this when assessing potential outcomes, possibly shifting odds in FC Utrecht’s favour.

Sparta Rotterdam Key Players

Tobias Lauritsen, Sparta Rotterdam’s top scorer with 9 goals this season, is central to their attacking strategy. His consistent goal-scoring makes him a real threat to any defence. Lauritsen’s movement and finishing are crucial, allowing him to capitalise on defensive lapses. Alongside him, Mitchell van Bergen and Shunsuke Mito are expected to provide width and creativity, making the forward line unpredictable.

In midfield, Joshua Kitolano and Ayoni Santos are key figures who orchestrate play and offer defensive cover. Kitolano’s box-to-box ability and Santos’ passing accuracy will be vital in controlling the tempo and linking defence to attack. At the back, Bruno Martins Indi’s experience and leadership are essential for maintaining structure and composure, particularly against FC Utrecht’s attacking threats.

Expected lineup for Sparta Rotterdam:

• Goalkeeper: Joël Drommel
• Defenders: Lushendry Martes, Marvin Young, Bruno Martins Indi, Teo Quintero
• Midfielders: Julian Baas, Ayoni Santos, Joshua Kitolano
• Forwards: Mitchell van Bergen, Tobias Lauritsen, Shunsuke Mito

Sparta Rotterdam Tactics and Formation

Sparta Rotterdam Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Tobias Lauritsen
• Midfield Pivot: Joshua Kitolano and Julian Baas
• Defensive Challenge: Conceded 6 goals in the last 5 games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on counter-attacking play and utilising the wings.

Sparta Rotterdam’s 4-3-3 formation under Maurice Steijn is designed to maximise their attacking potential while maintaining midfield strength. With Joshua Kitolano and Julian Baas occupying central roles, the team focuses on disrupting opposition play and transitioning quickly into attack. Ayoni Santos, alongside Kitolano and Baas, adds further creativity in midfield.

In attack, Sparta rely on Tobias Lauritsen, their leading scorer with 9 goals this season. Flanked by Shunsuke Mito and Mitchell van Bergen, the forward line is tasked with stretching the opposition and exploiting space on the wings. Their recent 4-3 victory over Feyenoord highlights their attacking prowess.

Defensively, Sparta have shown some vulnerability, conceding 6 goals in their last 5 matches. The backline, featuring Lushendry Martes and Bruno Martins Indi, needs to improve to secure more clean sheets. Nevertheless, their tactical discipline and counter-attacking threat remain key strengths.

FC Utrecht vs Sparta Rotterdam Head-to-Head Record

In the head-to-head record between FC Utrecht and Sparta Rotterdam, Utrecht have the advantage with 23 wins to Sparta’s 6, alongside 9 draws. The most recent meeting saw Sparta secure a 2-1 home win in the Eredivisie, demonstrating their ability to upset Utrecht despite the overall record.

The last encounter at Stadion Galgenwaard ended in a 1-1 draw, also in the Eredivisie. Historically, Utrecht have been strong at home against Sparta, but recent results indicate the visitors are becoming more competitive.

Home Side	Away Side	Score	League	Date
Sparta Rotterdam	FC Utrecht	2 – 1	Eredivisie	2025-08-17
FC Utrecht	Sparta Rotterdam	1 – 1	Eredivisie	2025-05-14
Sparta Rotterdam	FC Utrecht	1 – 4	Eredivisie	2024-11-03
FC Utrecht	Sparta Rotterdam	3 – 1	Eredivisie ECL Playoff	2024-05-23
FC Utrecht	Sparta Rotterdam	0 – 1	Eredivisie	2024-05-12