Viborg-FC Vestsjælland

Friday 25/10 18.30

For the unbiased viewer this is probably not the most intriguing match. The two promoted clubs both practise a very cautious and physical style. Do not expect to see many goals nor technical masterpieces.  Viborg (5th) arrive from an impressive draw in Brøndby (0-0), but it was mostly due to the lack of accuracy of Brøndby. Viborg have been struggling a bit with their offensive display in recent matches where league top scorer Thomas Dalgaard (8 goals this season) has not been served by his teammates.  It seems like the opponents are now aware about how to cope with the blond striker. Viborg will be without their veteran left back, Christopher Poulsen, and he is not easily replaceable. FC Vestsjælland (6th) surprised (us included) with a 2-1 victory against Esbjerg last weekend. It was a nice win since FC Vestsjælland managed to limit Esbjerg’s dangerous offense and at the same time create danger at every single offensive set piece. Against Viborg’s strong headers (fronted by Ogunbiyi) it will probably not be their main threat, but they should instead have good chances over the flanks. Especially right-winger, Marc Dal Hende, should have a good match-up against expected left back replacement Patrick Bang Nielsen. Dal Hende has been showing good things in recent weeks. The two teams met in Viborg just a month ago where the home team won 2-0 after two very late goals in a match where Vestsjælland were better.

Three factors to explain our pick:

1.     Momentum. FC Vestsjælland come from a win and a nice comeback against two top teams, Esbjerg and FC Midtjylland.

2.     Match-up. The absence of Christopher Poulsen leaves Viborg’s left side in a vulnerable state.

3.     Last match. FC Vestsjælland were better in the last match, but simply failed to capitalize.

Since the two teams take a defensive approach, we find it necessary to insure against the draw.

Recommendation: 2 (Draw No Bet) – 2.20 Bet365