FC Vestsjælland-FC Midtjylland

Friday 29/11 18.30

FC Vestsjælland (6th) deserved more last weekend in Aarhus (2-2). They played a nice match and were AGF dominant in the ability to create chances. At times they even played some pretty fine passing football; not exactly what the promoted club is most known for, signalling that confidence must be high after four points in two normally difficult away matches (OB and AGF). FC Vestsjælland will benefit from having key defender Jean-Claude Bozga back from suspension, but his normal partner in the central defence, Lasse Nielsen, is new on the list of suspended. The question is whether coach Ove Pedersen will solve this absence in the same way he solved the absence of Bozga: by changing from a 4-4-2 to a 3-4-3. The good thing about this formation is that his normal left back, Michael Lumb, has better opportunities for joining the attacks when playing wing. Lumb was outstanding in that role last weekend: obtaining a penalty and a huge opportunity (should have scored!). The critical thing about this formation is that it will allow more space for the opponent’s wingers. This was not a big issue against AGF’s wingers Oduro (no star player) and Akharraz (has tendency go towards the centre). Against FC Midtjylland (1st) it could be a different case. FC Midtjylland have some of the most challenging wingers in the league: Rilwan Hassan and Sylvester Igboun, and playing with only one wide-out could create problems for FC Vestsjælland. FC Midtjylland will not arrive at this match with the same level of confidence. They lost a six-pointer against Brøndby after a late goal and their leading position is not solid with AaB just two points behind. FC Midtjylland will have to cope with several absences. Key defender Erik Sviatchenko is injured, but Midtjylland will benefit from the return of central defender Patrick Banggaard. Midfielders Izunna and Petter Andersson are both suspended and especially the former is vital. FC Midtjylland will have to move an offensive player to cover his defensive position; most likely candidate is Danny Olsen. Not the best use of his abilities. On the bright side is the return of strong left back Jesper Juelsgaard. FC Midtjylland dominated the last match against FC Vestsjælland, but an own goal and a red card led to a disappointing 2-2 result.

FC Vestsjælland have the most confidence and the fittest squad. FC Midtjylland have a good match-up and have a better team even with the absences. We would not make a bet here, since we agree with the bookies to a large extent. But if you need some fun for your Friday, we would pick FC Midtjylland to win since this is the most likely winner.

Idea: 2 – 2.20 Nordicbet