FC Copenhagen-Esbjerg preview

Sunday 3/5 17.00

It is a rematch of the cup semi final from Thursday that saw Esbjerg eliminated on a late goal by FC Copenhagen. FC Copenhagen (2nd) have not exactly played great football in the last two matches. They have been under pressure in Randers and Esbjerg and hardly created an open play chance. They will look forward to return home, where they are usually stronger. However, the injury situation is not too comforting. Striker Andreas Cornelius, winger Danny Amankwaa and midfielder Youssef Toutouh have all received long-term injuries in the past few weeks. Defender Mikael Antonsson broke his hand in the last match and is out here, while central midfielder Christian Poulsen is doubtful. Reserve central midfielder Brandur Olsen is suspended, and FC Copenhagen are lucky that the same situation is not the case for vital players Mathias Zanka and Nicolai Jørgensen. However, the many injuries leave them with a decent line-up and no good alternatives on the bench. This is especially problematic since many players looked tired in midweek. Solbakken could decide to rest a few players, but this should have a severe negative impact on the quality. Esbjerg (10th) are experiencing a tough period. The rather unfortunate loss in the cup semi final marked the extinction of the last remaining hope for the season. Now they will have to focus on avoiding relegation. They will do this without the suspended couple of midfielder Hans-Henrik Andreasen and striker Mick van Buren, but both were not expected starting roles. Esbjerg have a decent team, and should be motivated to take revenge here. Striker Daniel Larsson should be the main threat. His pace has caused problems for opponents in recent matches.

FC Copenhagen have so many absences, and they are probably not highly motivated for the league since they are pretty stuck in second place. On the other hand, Esbjerg should arrive to this match highly motivated to revenge the midweek cup loss. This match should be more even than the table and the bookies predict.

Idea: 2 (0-1) – 2.20 at Tipico