Esbjerg-FC Copenhagen

Sunday 15/3 17.00

Esbjerg (10th) deliver some volatile performances at the moment. One day they lose and play terrible, the next day they win and play great football. However, it appears that the winter window have left them weaker. They are very dependent on the fitness of striker Lasse Rise (and he is often injured). If he is not on top, Esbjerg lack dangerous strikers and have to rely on their wingers. Another important Esbjerg player is midfielder Magnus Lekven, and he has missed some matches and not been at his best due to injuries. He is also likely to be out here. Central defender Michael Jakobsen is also doubtful. However, one thing is certain: when Esbjerg play at home against teams like Brøndby and FC Copenhagen they bring a lot of energy and are tough to beat. FC Copenhagen (2nd) won the important match against rivals Brøndby with 3-1. FC Copenhagen created many chances (and conceded many) and scored three goals, which was very positive after a period with problems in front of goal. It is problematic that main striker Cornelius is still without a goal in 2015, but he could get a good match-up against an Esbjerg back line who do not have any beast in the air. FC Copenhagen could have some problems in the central defence; the two preferred choices could both be out. Zanka is suspended, while Mikael Antonsson left the last match with an injury. The only good alternative is Per Nilsson, otherwise a midfielder might have to be used in the central defence.

Both teams risk having important absences in the back line. At the same time, we should expect to see a match with a lot of energy and attacking spirit. There should be value in odds on over currently. At the same time, there appear to be much more quality in FC Copenhagen than Esbjerg at the moment, why an away win is also attractive.

Recommendation: Over 2.5 goals – 2.38 at Betfair

Idea: 2 – 2.10 at Tipico