Silkeborg-FC Nordsjælland

Sunday 22/3 13.00

Silkeborg (12th) finally had some luck and managed to score four times after only three shots on target last weekend (one own goal). With two wins in 2015, they are moving closer to FC Vestsjælland in 11th position, but the 10th position is still 13 points ahead, which seems impossible. Especially since Silkeborg by no means have dominated their matches in 2015; they have just had some of the luck they lacked in 2014. In fact, only FC Vestsjælland have had fewer shots on target than Silkeborg in 2015. So do not get carried away by the scores, although the results might spark some much-needed confidence. Silkeborg will be without their top goalscorer, offensive midfielder Emil Scheel (five goals this season), who is out with an injury. Furthermore, striker Nicolaj Agger and central defender Simon Jakobsen are both suspended, leaving Silkeborg short on players (have a very slim squad). Scheel and Agger have scored 60% of Silkeborg's goals this season. FC Nordsjælland (6th) were the most convincing team in the last round. They really outplayed a hapless FC Vestsjælland team, and they should have won bigger than 2-0. The Swedish stand-in for Uffe Bech, David Moberg-Karlsson, played another great match, and it won’t be easy for Bech to return to the starting line-up despite of being close to full fitness. FC Nordsjælland finally got their new Icelandic striker Baldvinsson on the score-sheet and will be hoping it will be a confidence booster. But one thing is FC Nordsjælland home, and another thing is FC Nordsjælland away. They are typically much stronger at home on the artificial pitch (as seen by the 6-0 score in last two home matches).

Silkeborg are starting to gain some momentum, but they have not played well, and they are without three regulars here. It looks like a very difficult mission for them. On the other hand, FC Nordsjælland are sparkling and key winger Uffe Bech is set to return for some minutes here. FC Nordsjælland should be clear favourites.

Tip of the Week: 2 – 2.30 at Bet365

UPDATE: The absentees have forced Silkeborg to only call up 16 players (18 players possible). And the quality on the bench is not impressive.