FC Midtjylland-OB

Monday 23/2 19.00
FC Midtjylland (1st) showed their new financial strength by buying the league top goalscorer in Esbjerg: Martin Pusic (nine goals). They also bought the Swedish goalkeeper Johan Dahlin to cover one of the weak spots in autumn: the goalkeeping position. In other words, FC Midtjylland look like a complete team and in our opinion clearly the best current side in the league. They have an impressive squad depth so they look like a clear favourite for the league title. The only possible concern is whether the many quality players in the squad could create problems if they are not getting satisfying playing time. FC Midtjylland are likely to be without central defender Erik Sviatchenko and winger Rilwan Hassan for this match, while central midfielder Kristoffer Olsson is a certain absentee. Good players, but the alternatives are just as good. OB (10th) had a horrendous autumn, which resulted in a coaching change before things started to improve. Now the situation looks much better. OB have upgraded their squad in the weakest spots. Two new strikers have been signed: the league top goalscorer of last season Thomas Dalgaard (out injured for some weeks though) and the massive Kenneth Zohore, who might excel with help from OB’s strong wingers. OB have also signed defender Hallgrimur Jonasson, which should help stabilize the defence that has looked shaky at times. The only important departure, right back Espen Ruud, has been replaced by fellow Norwegian Håkon Skogseid who has done well in pre-season matches. Overall, OB are now a much stronger team than in the autumn, but they will get their hands full from the start with an away match against FC Midtjylland. Apart from the injured Thomas Dalgaard the squad appears injury-free.

FC Midtjylland are probably going to win this match, although OB’s improvement could open up for an interesting match. Both clubs are strongest offensively, why the most attractive betting opportunity is a bet for many goals, although odds 1.80 is not spectacular for a game an opening game in February.

Idea: Over 2.5 goals – 1.80 at Ladbrokes

Update: Sviatchenko and Hassan both in squad for FC Midtjylland. Central midfielder Spelmann doubtful for OB.