Feyenoord vs Sparta Rotterdam Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Sunday, 18 January

Feyenoord and Sparta Rotterdam are set to face off in the Eredivisie on Sunday, 18 January, at the iconic De Kuip stadium. This match promises to be an intriguing encounter as both teams vie for crucial points in the league. With Feyenoord playing at home, they will be looking to leverage their familiar surroundings and passionate fanbase to secure a victory.

Sparta Rotterdam, meanwhile, will aim to upset their local rivals and climb up the Eredivisie standings. This fixture is not just about local bragging rights but also presents a significant opportunity for both teams to assert their ambitions in the league. As we delve into the prediction, match preview, and betting tips, the dynamics of this encounter could offer some interesting betting angles.

Feyenoord vs Sparta Rotterdam Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Sparta Rotterdam to win or draw	3.2

Considering the statistics and recent form, our recommended betting tip is to back Sparta Rotterdam to win or draw (Double Chance). Despite Feyenoord’s historical dominance, Sparta Rotterdam’s current form suggests they have a good chance to secure at least a point.

• Sparta Rotterdam have won 4 out of their last 5 games, showcasing strong form.
• Feyenoord’s last home match against Sparta Rotterdam ended in a 3-0 win, but Sparta’s current momentum could change the dynamics.
• Sparta Rotterdam concede an average of 1.7 goals per game, which is not insurmountable considering their recent attacking prowess.

Betting Odds

Feyenoord are strong favourites in this Eredivisie clash at De Kuip, with their odds sitting at 1.39. Sparta Rotterdam, on the other hand, are the underdogs with odds of 6.8, reflecting the challenge they face against a formidable Feyenoord side.

Betting Tip	Odds
Feyenoord to win	1.39
Draw	4.89
Sparta Rotterdam to win	6.8

The draw is priced at 4.89, which could be tempting for those expecting a tight contest. Given Feyenoord’s home advantage and current form, betting markets are leaning towards a home win, but the odds for a draw or an upset by Sparta Rotterdam might offer value for more adventurous punters.

Feyenoord Analysis & Past Performance

Feyenoord currently sit in second place in the Eredivisie, reflecting a season of mixed results. With 36 points accumulated over 18 matches, they have demonstrated their attacking prowess by scoring 44 goals, averaging 2.44 goals per game—one of the highest in the league. However, their defensive record has been less solid, conceding 23 goals, which translates to an average of 1.28 goals conceded per match.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
SC Heerenveen	Feyenoord	2 – 2 (Draw)	Eredivisie	11 Jan 2026
Feyenoord	Twente	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	21 Dec 2025
Feyenoord	SC Heerenveen	2 – 3 (Loss)	KNVB Cup	17 Dec 2025
Ajax	Feyenoord	2 – 0 (Loss)	Eredivisie	14 Dec 2025
FC FCSB	Feyenoord	4 – 3 (Loss)	Europa League	11 Dec 2025

Recent Form:
In their last five matches, Feyenoord have struggled to clinch victories, recording a win ratio of 0.00 with three losses and two draws. Despite this, their offensive unit has remained active, scoring in four of these encounters and maintaining an average of 1.60 goals per game. However, defensive frailties are evident as they’ve conceded 12 goals, at an average of 2.40 per match, and failed to keep a single clean sheet during this period.

Home Performance:

• DDLLL

At home, Feyenoord’s form has been slightly better, achieving a win ratio of 0.40 in their last five home fixtures. They have managed to score in each game, yet defensive lapses have been costly, as they have conceded in all five matches. Their home ground, De Kuip, has not been the fortress they had hoped for, with a notable lack of clean sheets, which points towards a need for defensive improvements.

Feyenoord Suspensions & Injuries

Feyenoord face a significant challenge with several key players unavailable due to injuries. The absence of Gernot Trauner, due to an Achilles tendon injury, could notably weaken their defensive line. Trauner’s experience and leadership are crucial for maintaining defensive solidity, and his absence may compel Feyenoord to rely on less experienced players to fill the gap. Jakub Moder, another vital player, is also doubtful with a knock injury, which might disrupt their midfield dynamics and creativity.

Thomas Beelen’s broken leg leaves Feyenoord short of options in central defence, potentially forcing Robin van Persie to consider tactical adjustments or promote a youth player to maintain defensive balance. Similarly, Malcolm Jeng and Shiloh ‘t Zand are both sidelined, compounding the team’s injury woes and limiting their squad depth further.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Thomas Beelen	Broken leg	Doubtful
Jakub Moder	Knock	Doubtful
Gernot Trauner	Achilles tendon	Doubtful
Malcolm Jeng	Achilles tendon	Doubtful
Shiloh ‘t Zand	Knee	Doubtful

With such a depleted squad, Feyenoord might need to adopt a more conservative approach, focusing on a solid defensive structure to compensate for the absence of key players. This situation could also influence betting markets, as Feyenoord’s weakened lineup might affect their odds and perceived chances against Sparta Rotterdam.

Feyenoord Key Players

Ayase Ueda holds the mantle of Feyenoord’s top scorer with an impressive 17 goals this season, making him a crucial figure in their attacking lineup. His clinical finishing and ability to find spaces in the opposition’s defence make him a constant threat. Ueda’s partnership with wingers Gonçalo Borges and Leo Sauer is pivotal, as they provide the necessary width and service that enhances his goal-scoring opportunities.

In midfield, Quinten Timber’s role is indispensable. His ability to control the tempo and distribute the ball effectively underpins Feyenoord’s tactical approach. Timber’s vision and passing range allow him to link defence and attack seamlessly, adding a layer of creativity that could unlock Sparta Rotterdam’s defence. Defensively, Anel Ahmedhodžić stands out with his commanding presence and aerial prowess, which will be vital in neutralising any attacking threats from set pieces.

Expected lineup for Feyenoord:

• Goalkeeper: Timon Wellenreuther
• Defence: Givairo Read, Anel Ahmedhodžić, Tsuyoshi Watanabe, Jordan Bos
• Midfield: In-Beom Hwang, Quinten Timber, Sem Steijn
• Forward: Gonçalo Borges, Leo Sauer, Ayase Ueda

Feyenoord Tactics and Formation

Feyenoord Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Ayase Ueda
• Midfield Pivot: In-Beom Hwang and Quinten Timber
• Defensive Concerns: No clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and quick transitions on the flanks.

Feyenoord’s 4-3-3 setup is structured to maximise their attacking potential, with Ayase Ueda leading the line as the central striker. Flanked by Gonçalo Borges and Leo Sauer, this formation leverages speed and creativity on the wings to stretch opposition defences and create scoring opportunities.

In midfield, In-Beom Hwang and Quinten Timber are pivotal, tasked with controlling the tempo of the game and facilitating transitions from defence to attack. Their ability to maintain possession and distribute the ball effectively is crucial for Feyenoord’s high-pressing strategy.

Defensively, Feyenoord have struggled to maintain clean sheets, as evidenced by their recent performances. The backline, featuring Anel Ahmedhodžić and Tsuyoshi Watanabe, needs to tighten up to prevent conceding goals, especially against counter-attacking threats.

Sparta Rotterdam Analysis & Past Performance

Sparta Rotterdam’s recent form has been mixed, registering three wins and two losses in their last five matches across all competitions. Notably, their victories included a solid 2-0 win against Heracles and an emphatic 5-1 triumph over Willem II in the KNVB Cup. However, they experienced setbacks against SC Heerenveen and, most recently, a 1-2 loss to FC Volendam in the KNVB Cup.

Home Side	Away Side	Outcome	Tournament	Date
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
Sparta Rotterdam	SC Heerenveen	0 – 3 (Loss)	Eredivisie	14 Dec, 2025

Recent Form:

• LWWWL

Offensively, Sparta Rotterdam have showcased a decent attacking output, averaging 1.80 goals per game in their last five encounters. Defensively, they have conceded an average of 1.20 goals per match, managing two clean sheets in this span. Their away performance has been commendable, with three wins out of five matches, reflecting their ability to compete effectively on the road. Currently sitting 8th in the league with 26 points, Sparta Rotterdam’s ability to maintain defensive solidity while capitalising on scoring opportunities will be crucial in upcoming fixtures.

Sparta Rotterdam Suspensions & Injuries

Sparta Rotterdam face a challenging fixture against Feyenoord with the absence of Vito van Crooij due to injury. His unavailability until early February 2026 could significantly impact Sparta’s attacking dynamics, as van Crooij is known for his creative play and goal-scoring ability from the wing. This loss is a blow to Maurice Steijn’s side, particularly in a match where they are likely to need all the attacking options they can muster against a formidable Feyenoord defence.

In van Crooij’s absence, Sparta Rotterdam may need to rely more heavily on players like Mitchell van Bergen and Shunsuke Mito to fill the creative void. Van Bergen, with his pace and dribbling skills, might be tasked with stepping up to provide the attacking impetus. Additionally, Jens Toornstra’s experience and versatility in midfield will be crucial in adapting to this change.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Vito van Crooij	Unknown	Early February 2026

With no suspensions affecting the squad, Sparta Rotterdam’s overall team depth remains intact. However, the tactical impact of van Crooij’s injury could lead to a more conservative approach, focusing on solidifying the midfield and defence to counter Feyenoord’s attacking threats. This strategic adjustment might influence betting markets, as the potential for a lower-scoring game increases due to Sparta’s need to adapt without one of their key offensive players.

Sparta Rotterdam Key Players

Sparta Rotterdam’s offensive prowess is spearheaded by their top scorer, Tobias Lauritsen, who has netted 9 goals this season. Lauritsen’s ability to find the back of the net is complemented by his positioning and clinical finishing, making him a constant threat to any defence. His partnership with Shunsuke Mito and Mitchell van Bergen in the forward line is instrumental, as van Bergen’s pace and Mito’s creativity provide the perfect setup for Lauritsen to exploit defensive gaps.

In midfield, Joshua Kitolano and Ayoni Santos are pivotal in dictating the tempo and providing the necessary support both defensively and offensively. Kitolano’s box-to-box capabilities allow him to break up opposition plays while transitioning the ball forward efficiently. On the defensive front, the experience of Bruno Martins Indi provides stability and leadership, crucial for maintaining a solid backline against Feyenoord’s attacking threats. His partnership with Marvin Young is expected to be a key factor in sustaining defensive resilience.

Expected lineup for Sparta Rotterdam:

• Goalkeeper: Joel Drommel
• Defence: Lushendry Martes, Marvin Young, Bruno Martins Indi, Teo Quintero
• Midfield: Joshua Kitolano, Ayoni Santos, Julian Baas
• Forward: Shunsuke Mito, Mitchell van Bergen, Tobias Lauritsen

Sparta Rotterdam Tactics and Formation

Sparta Rotterdam Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Tobias Lauritsen
• Midfield Pivot: Julian Baas and Jens Toornstra
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on structured defence and effective counterattacks.

Sparta Rotterdam typically employ a 4-2-3-1 formation, which allows for a balanced approach between defence and attack. The midfield partnership of Julian Baas and Jens Toornstra is pivotal, providing both defensive cover and creative outlets. They play a crucial role in transitioning play from defence to attack, supporting the offensive efforts.

Defensively, Sparta Rotterdam have shown resilience, maintaining two clean sheets in their last five matches. The backline, anchored by Bruno Martins Indi, is central to this solidity. Shurandy Sambo and Teo Quintero provide width and defensive support from the full-back positions.

Offensively, the team leans on Tobias Lauritsen, who is their top scorer with nine goals. The attacking unit, supported by the likes of Mitchell van Bergen and Shunsuke Mito, focuses on quick counterattacks. This strategy has been effective, especially when exploiting spaces left by opponents, although they need to improve on maintaining possession to further solidify their attacking prowess.

Feyenoord vs Sparta Rotterdam Head-to-Head Record

Feyenoord have dominated the head-to-head record against Sparta Rotterdam with 25 wins out of 34 matches, while Sparta have only managed 5 victories, and there have been 4 draws. In their most recent encounter, Feyenoord thrashed Sparta 4-0 away from home in the Eredivisie, showcasing their superiority.

The last time these two met at De Kuip, Feyenoord secured a convincing 3-0 victory, continuing their strong home form against Sparta. Historically, Feyenoord have been the more dominant side in this fixture, especially in league play, where they consistently outscore their local rivals.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Sparta Rotterdam	Feyenoord	0 – 4	Eredivisie	2025-08-31
Feyenoord	Sparta Rotterdam	3 – 0	Eredivisie	2025-02-08
Sparta Rotterdam	Feyenoord	1 – 1	Eredivisie	2024-08-25
Feyenoord	Sparta Rotterdam	2 – 0	Eredivisie	2024-02-11
Sparta Rotterdam	Feyenoord	2 – 2	Eredivisie	2023-08-20