⚽ Champions League - League phase - Round 1 Preview

📅 18 Sep 2024

⏰ 17:45 GMT +1

🏟 epet ARENA (Prague)

Sparta Prague return to the UEFA Champions League proper for the first time in 19 years after multiple unsuccessful qualification attempts. Having gone unbeaten in 13 competitive matches this season (W11, D2), the Czech champions have successfully navigated three qualification rounds to reach this stage. Sparta’s impressive attacking form has been evident, scoring 14 goals across six UCL qualifiers. This will be their first UCL group-stage match against an Austrian side since 1983/84, and they enter the clash with strong confidence, backed by an excellent home European record of just one loss in their last 11 outings (W6, D4). Additionally, Sparta’s solid track record against Austrian teams (W4, D4, L1) further boosts their belief.

Salzburg, however, are no strangers to the UCL, having made the group stage in each of the past six seasons, one of only two clubs from outside Europe’s top-five leagues to do so (alongside Shakhtar Donetsk). Although they’ve reached the knockout phase just once in those campaigns, the revamped league format gives them a new opportunity to advance. Salzburg must improve their away form, as they've won only four of their last 19 UCL away games (D6, L9), a concerning record as they prepare for tough upcoming fixtures against Bayer Leverkusen, Real Madrid, and PSG.

Where to watch Sparta Prague vs Salzburg?

📺 Link to watch Sparta Prague vs Salzburg Live Stream on TV

📋 Players to watch: Sparta’s summer signing, Albion Rrahmani, has already netted three goals this season, including a vital UCL strike at home. Interestingly, each of his last four club goals was the second goal of the match. On Salzburg’s side, Dorgeles Nene has been an away specialist, scoring all four of his goals this season on the road, including two early strikes in UCL qualifying.

⚡️ Match Facts: Sparta have failed to win any of their last 14 UCL group stage matches (D4, L10), with their most recent victory dating back to December 2003 against Lazio.

💡 Sparta Prague vs Salzburg Prediction

Sparta Prague, riding high on their strong domestic and European form, will likely present a formidable challenge to Salzburg, especially at home. However, Salzburg's experience in navigating the UCL’s group stage and their ability to score away from home make them a tough opponent. Expect a tight contest with both sides having their moments, but Sparta’s home advantage might just tip the balance.

Sparta Prague vs Salzburg Betting Tips

Tip 1: Both teams to score
Tip 2: Over 2.5 goals in the match
Tip 3: Sparta Prague to win or draw (Double Chance)

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Sparta Prague vs Salzburg Prediction 18 Sep 2024