Esbjerg-Viborg

Sunday 18/5 17.00

Esbjerg (5th) thought they secured a European spot with a win in Odense last weekend (2-1). Since Esbjerg have been accused of using a player illegally, which has costed them a point. Esbjerg will now have to obtain at least one point in this match to be certain that they will play European football next season. Although this should motivate the Esbjerg players, it could also make them nervous. Esbjerg will have to do without their midfield pacemaker Magnus Lekven, left winger Jeppe Andersen and striker Mushaga Bakenga. Important absences, particularly in the midfield. Lekven is very important for Esbjerg. With him this season: 13 wins, 6 draws and 4 losses. Without him: 0 wins, 4 draws and 6 losses! We expect normal right back Peter Ankersen to get a chance at the left wing. Look for line-ups, if this is the case there could be value on him as a goalscorer. Viborg (11th) are relegated and this match is preparation for next season. Coach Skarbalius might try to shuffle things a bit to get a look at some other players. Viborg seem keen on leaving the league with a positive experience and we do not believe that they will get hammered here. They have a decent team, especially offensively with league top goalscorer, Thomas Dalgaard, and the Brazillian playmaker Wilton Figuereido. Viborg will be without three injured midfielders, Lukas Lerager, Nicholas Gotfredsen and David Boysen. The first two would normally start in the central midfield, so both clubs are without the best players centrally.

Esbjerg have a lot at stake. With good weather and a full stadium they should dominate against Viborg, but Viborg have a potent offense and they might be able to scare Esbjerg. In our opinion Esbjerg are too big favourites here. They are naturally massive favourites to win, but without Lekven they are a different team. A draw is fine for both teams and the price is nice.

Idea: X – 5.90 at Betfair