Crvena Zvezda vs Stuttgart Prediction - Champions League

As the Champions League progresses to Round 5, FK Crvena Zvezda hosts VfB Stuttgart at the Stadion Rajko Mitić. This fixture pits two teams from the lower half of the standings, with Crvena Zvezda languishing at 35th place and Stuttgart at 27th. The hosts have struggled greatly, conceding 16 goals in four matches and yet to secure a point, making this a crucial fixture to regain some pride.

The visitors, Stuttgart, under the guidance of Sebastian Hoeneß, boast a ber recent form and are the bookmakers’ favourites at 1.74 odds to win. Despite recent defensive lapses, Stuttgart has a potent attack, averaging 1.20 goals per game and targeting playoff contention. Expect key performances from Enzo Millot and Chris Fuehrich, among others.

Rainy weather with a 9°C temperature and windy conditions might influence match dynamics. Stuttgart, likely to leverage their record with strategic plays in the latter stages of the game, is poised for a much-needed victory.

Match prediction: Stuttgart to prevail given their higher standings, form, and the dire state of the hosts, whose defensive vulnerabilities are expected to be exploited.

FK Crvena Zvezda vs VfB Stuttgart Prediction & Betting Tip

• Stuttgart is in better form and needs the points for playoff contention.
• Crvena Zvezda has conceded 16 goals in their first four matches, highlighting their defensive frailties.
• Stuttgart’s b away record and ability to score, especially towards the end of matches, make them favourites.

FK Crvena Zvezda vs VfB Stuttgart Odds

Bookmakers are tipping VfB Stuttgart as the clear favorites for this Champions League clash at Stadion Rajko Mitić. The odds reflect the contrasting fortunes of both teams in the tournament thus far. Crvena Zvezda has struggled defensively, conceding 16 goals in their first four matches. Meanwhile, Stuttgart’s solid form and great away performances enhance their winning prospects. Below is a breakdown of the current betting odds:

FK Crvena Zvezda Team Analysis

Recent Performance WLWWL

FK Crvena Zvezda has shown a mixed bag of results lately, with a record of WLWWL in their last five matches. They have experienced both high-scoring wins and crushing defeats, reflecting some inconsistency in their form. Here’s a look at their recent performances:

FK Crvena Zvezda Key Players

FK Crvena Zvezda’s key player to watch is Milson, their top scorer with 2 goals this season. He will be crucial in breaking down VfB Stuttgart’s defense. Given Stuttgart’s inconsistent defensive record, it will be interesting to see how Zvezda’s forwards match up against Stuttgart’s disciplined backline.

Expected lineup for FK Crvena Zvezda:

• Goalkeeper: No data
• Defenders: No data
• Midfielders: No data
• Forwards: No data

Despite lacking detailed lineup information, Milson’s performance will be pivotal. His battle against Stuttgart’s defenders, including Stergiou and Rouault, could dictate the game’s outcome. Fans should also note the absence of Mirko Ivanić and Peter Olayinka.

FK Crvena Zvezda Suspensions & Injuries

Crvena Zvezda has a considerable list of injuries that could impact their performance in the upcoming match against VfB Stuttgart. There are no suspensions reported for the team, allowing them to field all non-injured players.

Key absences like Peter Olayinka, expected to return by mid-January 2025, and several other doubtful players might weaken their usual offensive strengths. Given that Milson remains fit, he needs to lead the attack against Stuttgart’s b defense.

FK Crvena Zvezda Tactics and Formation

FK Crvena Zvezda Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Crvena Zvezda has recently alternated formations, showcasing a 5-3-2, 4-5-1, and other setups, indicating flexibility in their approach.
• Key Forward: Milson, despite the injury-ridden squad, remains a crucial attacking threat, having scored two goals in the tournament.
• Midfield Setup: Given the injuries to key midfielders like Ivanic and Duarte da Silva, Crvena Zvezda may opt for a more defensively robust midfield lineup, possibly utilizing their depth.
• Defensive Strength: With two clean sheets in their last five games, their defense can hold firm under pressure but will need to improve against ber opponents.
• Notable Strategy: Aiming to exploit counter-attacks and capitalize on errors from Stuttgart’s backline, particularly in the 76-90-minute interval when Stuttgart has shown vulnerability. Crvena Zvezda’s flexibility in formation could be pivotal in navigating their tough competition.

VfB Stuttgart Team Analysis

Stuttgart’s form has been a mixed bag lately, showcasing a blend of wins, losses, and a draw in their last five outings. They’ve managed to secure victories against Bochum and Kaiserslautern, but fell short against Frankfurt and Atalanta, with a goalless draw against Bayer Leverkusen in between. Stuttgart averages 1.20 goals per game and boasts 2 clean sheets in the past five matches, highlighting their intermittent defensive solidity. Here’s a closer look at their recent results:

VfB Stuttgart Key Players

Expected lineup for VfB Stuttgart:

• Goalkeeper: Alexander Nubel
• Right back: Leonidas Stergiou
• Centre-back: Anthony Rouault
• Centre-back: Julian Chabot
• Left back: Maximilian Mittelstädt
• Defensive midfielder: Atakan Karazor
• Defensive midfielder: Enzo Millot
• Right wing: Josha Vagnoman
• Left wing: Chris Führich
• Attacking midfielder: Nick Woltemade
• Forward: Ermedin Demirovic

Key players to watch for Stuttgart include Chris Führich and Nick Woltemade, who will be crucial in supplying chances for forward Ermedin Demirovic. Despite Deniz Undav being the top scorer, his absence due to injury puts extra pressure on Demirovic to deliver upfront. Their defense, marshaled by Anthony Rouault and Julian Chabot, will need to stay alert against FK Crvena Zvezda’s attackers.

VfB Stuttgart Suspensions & Injuries

Injuries have significantly impacted VfB Stuttgart’s squad depth. Key forward Deniz Undav, along with several others, is sidelined. Here’s the current injury list:

VfB Stuttgart Tactics and Formation

VfB Stuttgart Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Ermedin Demirović
• Attacking Trio: Josha Vagnoman, Nick Woltemade, Chris Führich
• Defensive Pairing: Anthony Rouault and Julian Chabot
• Defensive Awareness: Two clean sheets in the last five games.
• Notable Strategy: Strong goalscoring during the 76-90 minute interval.

Sebastian Hoeneß’s side employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, solidifying their defense while providing flexibility in attack. The dual midfield pivot of Atakan Karazor and Enzo Millot serves both defensive and offensive duties.

Demirović leads the line, supported by the creative trio of Vagnoman, Woltemade, and Führich, ensuring Stuttgart has ample firepower. The team also focuses on their defensive strategy, evident from their notable clean sheets. Look out for their late-game scoring prowess, as they are particularly lethal in the game’s final quarter-hour.

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