Viktoria Plzen and Manchester United clash in a critical Europa League match on December 12, 2024, at Doosan Arena Plzen. Both teams have accumulated nine points from their first five games and are battling for a direct spot in the knockout rounds. Viktoria Plzen, unbeaten in their last seven matches and performing bly domestically, sits second in the Czech league.
Manchester United, under new coach Ruben Amorim, have had an unstable season, highlighted by a recent 3-2 loss to Nottingham Forest. Expect a match where both teams, known for their offensive capabilities and defensive vulnerabilities, push hard for advancement. With the freezing weather and few clouds, it’s going to be a tough battle. Given both teams’ form, a draw seems like a b possibility and can be a recommended bet with odds at 4.55.
Viktoria Plzen vs. Manchester United Prediction & Betting Tip
Recommend our betting tip: Draw
Explanation: Both teams have shown comparable forms and vulnerabilities in their recent games, suggesting an evenly contested match. Viktoria Plzen and Manchester United both have 9 points and have had identical sequences in terms of draws and victories.
| Viktoria Plzen vs. Manchester United Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Draw | 4.55 |
- Both teams have not lost in their previous matches.
- Viktoria Plzen has been solid defensively at home.
- Manchester United has struggled on the road recently.
Viktoria Plzen vs. Manchester United Odds
The betting odds for this Europa League clash heavily favor Manchester United. Despite their recent struggles, bookmakers see United as the likelier team to snatch victory. However, Viktoria Plzen’s impressive unbeaten run and home advantage cannot be overlooked, making this an intriguing betting scenario. Here’s a breakdown of the betting odds for this match:
| Viktoria Plzen vs. Manchester United Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Viktoria Plzen | 4.89 |
| Draw | 4.01 |
| Manchester United | 1.66 |
Manchester United’s consistency issues under Rubén Amorim could make the draw an attractive option for those seeking higher returns, especially given both teams’ identical points tally.
Viktoria Plzen vs Manchester United Live Streaming: UEFA Champions League
The UEFA Europa League broadcast in India is with the Sony Sports Network. The SonyLiv Website and App have the live streaming rights. Fans can watch Viktoria Plzen vs Manchester United live streaming on SonyLiv at 11:15 PM on Thursday, December 12.
Viktoria Plzen Team Analysis
Viktoria Plzen Recent Performance: WDWWW
Viktoria Plzen has been on a solid run, showcasing impressive form in their last five matches. They have managed to stay unbeaten, securing four wins and one draw. Their recent performances include a thrilling away win against Karvina and a hard-fought draw with Teplice.
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Karvina | Viktoria Plzen | 1-2 (Win) |
| Viktoria Plzen | Teplice | 1-1 (Draw) |
| Viktoria Plzen | Jablonec | 3-2 (Win) |
| Dynamo Kyiv | Viktoria Plzen | 1-2 (Win) |
| Hradec Kralove | Viktoria Plzen | 0-1 (Win) |
Their average goals scored per match stand at an impressive 1.8, and they’ve maintained a clean sheet in one of their last five games. This b form places them in a good position to challenge Manchester United, despite the latter being favored by bookmakers.
Viktoria Plzen’s resilience, especially at home, will play a crucial role in this vital Europa League matchup.
Viktoria Plzeň Key Players
Viktoria Plzeň will look to their key players to make an impact in this crucial Europa League clash. Leading the charge is top scorer Pavel Šulc, who has netted two goals in the tournament. His creativity and finishing ability will be pivotal in unlocking Manchester United’s defense. Additionally, Matěj Vydra is expected to play a significant role up front, especially given his recent form and knack for scoring in important games. Midfield dynamo Lukáš Kalvach will aim to control the tempo and provide incisive passes to the forwards. Expected lineup for Viktoria Plzeň:
- Goalkeeper: Martin Jedlička
- Defenders: Sampson Dweh, Lukáš Hejda, Václav Jemelka
- Midfielders: Carlos Eduardo Lopes Cruz Cadu, Lukáš Červ, Lukáš Kalvach, Pavel Šulc, Cheick Souaré
- Attackers: Matěj Vydra, Erik Jirka Their performances will be crucial in determining the outcome of this tightly contested match against a formidable Manchester United side.
Viktoria Plzen Suspensions & Injuries
Viktoria Plzen will be facing Manchester United with a few injury concerns that may impact their performance. Several key players are sidelined, which could weaken their defensive and attacking options.
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Rafiu Durosinmi | Unknown | Doubtful |
| Jan Sykora | Unknown | Late December 2024 |
| Christophe Kabongo | Knee injury | Late December 2024 |
| Matej Valenta | Knee injury | Late December 2024 |
| Prince Kwabena Adu | Personal reasons | Late December 2024 |
| Svetozar Markovic | Muscle injury | Unknown |
With these players out, coach Miroslav Koubek may need to rely on his squad’s depth and tactical flexibility to navigate the match against a formidable Manchester United team. The absence of these key players, especially in defense, might make it challenging to maintain their unbeaten run in the Europa League.
Viktoria Plzen Tactics and Formation
Viktoria Plzen Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-4-2-1
- Key Forward: Erik Jirka
- Midfield Duo: Lukas Kalvach, Lukas Cerv
- Defensive Line: Sampson Dweh, Lukas Hejda, Vaclav Jemelka
- Notable Strategy: Strong use of wing-backs in Carlos Eduardo Lopes Cruz Cadu and Cheick Souaré
Given their formation, Viktoria Plzen leverages a solid three-man backline to bolster their defense. The midfield is a dynamic unit, with Kalvach and Cerv providing stability and transition play. The wide players are essential for both defense and attack, making the team flexible.
Expect Viktoria Plzen to focus on exploiting the wings to create chances while maintaining a compact defensive structure, especially given the key injuries in the squad. Coach Miroslav Koubek will aim to use this setup to extend their unbeaten run in the Europa League.
Manchester United Team Analysis
Manchester United Recent Performance LLWWD
Manchester United’s recent form has been a mixed bag of results, displaying two losses, two wins, and a draw in their last five matches. Their most recent encounter was a disappointing 2-3 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest. Previously, they suffered a 0-2 loss away to Arsenal but found success with a 4-0 victory against Everton and a narrow 3-2 win over Bodoe/Glimt.
They also drew 1-1 with Ipswich Town. Their attacking prowess has been evident, with an average of 2.00 goals scored per game in their last five outings. However, their defense has struggled to keep clean sheets, managing only one in this period.
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Manchester United | Nottingham Forest | 2-3 (Loss) |
| Arsenal | Manchester United | 2-0 (Loss) |
| Manchester United | Everton | 4-0 (Win) |
| Manchester United | Bodoe/Glimt | 3-2 (Win) |
| Ipswich Town | Manchester United | 1-1 (Draw) |
Overall, Manchester United will look to address their defensive inconsistencies as they face Viktoria Plzen.
Manchester United Key Players
Expected lineup for Manchester United:
- Goalkeeper: Andre Onana
- Central backs: Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro
- Right midfielder: Amad Diallo
- Central midfielders: Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo
- Left midfielder: Diogo Dalot
- Attacking midfielders: Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho
- Forward: Marcus Rashford
Key players for Manchester United include their top scorer, Rasmus Hoejlund, who has netted three goals in the tournament this season. The creative Bruno Fernandes will be crucial in linking the midfield and attack, while Andre Onana is expected to provide stability in goal.
Individual matchups to watch:
- Rasmus Hoejlund vs. Viktoria Plzen’s central defense
- Bruno Fernandes vs. Lukas Kalvach in the midfield battle
These players will need to be at their best if Manchester United are to fulfill their role as bookmaker favorites.
Manchester United Suspensions & Injuries
Manchester United are heading into this Europa League clash with a few injury concerns that could impact the team’s performance and depth. Injuries:
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Victor Lindelof | Leg injury | Doubtful |
| Jonny Evans | Knock injury | Doubtful |
| Luke Shaw | Hamstring injury | Late December 2024 |
While there are no suspensions to report, the potential absence of key defenders such as Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans might affect the solidity of their backline. Luke Shaw’s hamstring injury further reduces defensive options. Coach Rúben Amorim will need to rely on his squad’s depth to navigate through these challenges successfully.
Manchester United Tactics and Formation
Manchester United’s Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-4-2-1
- Key Forward: Marcus Rashford
- Attacking Midfield Duo: Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho
- Midfield Backbone: Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo
- Defensive Setup: Central back trio comprising Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs de Ligt, and Leny Yoro
Manchester United under Rúben Amorim typically employs a 3-4-2-1 formation, emphasizing a solid defensive setup combined with dynamic attacking play. Their key strategy lies in leveraging Bruno Fernandes’ creativity alongside Alejandro Garnacho’s pace to facilitate quick transitions and supply Marcus Rashford, their primary forward threat. With Casemiro anchoring the midfield, United will look to dominate the central areas while their b defensive trio aims to keep Viktoria Plzen’s limited attacking threats at bay.
Viktoria Plzen vs. Manchester United Head-to-Head Statistics
It appears that Viktoria Plzen and Manchester United have not faced each other in recent matches. Therefore, there are no head-to-head statistics to analyze. This being their first encounter provides an exciting opportunity for both teams to establish supremacy. Both teams are keen to secure a win and advance in the Europa League.
With Viktoria Plzen battling it out on their home ground, Doosan Arena, the atmosphere is expected to be electric despite the chilly weather. Meanwhile, Manchester United, as the bookmaker favorite, will aim to leverage their b offense to make a mark.
Venue and Weather
The match between Viktoria Plzen and Manchester United will take place at the Doosan Arena Plzen, a stadium known for its vibrant atmosphere and support for the home team. With a capacity of approximately 11,700, the fans of Viktoria Plzen will surely aim to create a challenging environment for the visiting team. The weather forecast for match day indicates a chilly evening with a temperature of just 1°C.
The relative humidity will be around 79%, and there will be a mild breeze with a wind speed of 1.28 m/s. These cold conditions could impact player performance, especially for those not accustomed to such temperatures. Both teams might adopt a more conservative strategy to manage the cold, with a focus on maintaining possession and minimizing risks. Manchester United may rely on their physicality and depth in the squad to withstand the weather, while Viktoria Plzen could use their familiarity with the conditions to their advantage.
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