FC Nordsjælland-Esbjerg preview

Sunday 16/8 13.30

FC Nordsjælland (10th) took an unexpected point at FC Copenhagen. However, given the circumstances (playing 11 against 9 at the end) they should probably have gone for more, but confidence is clearly not on top yet. However, they have earned points in the last two matches and they have improved the quality of their play remarkably. The addition of Brazilian striker Bruninho has really helped. Bruninho has some great abilities: strong, technical and great finisher. A real quality signing that will earn FC Nordsjælland several extra points this season. He has scored in the past two matches and he will look for a hattrick here. FC Nordsjælland are a strong home team at own artificial turf. Esbjerg (12th) took a beating at home to SønderjyskE (0-4) as we predicted with last weeks Tip of the Week. This has led to the departure of head coach Niels Frederiksen. I have my doubts with the temporary replacement Michael Pedersen (former assistant) who is not known for his tactical abilities, but more for being the nice guy in the locker room. This is probably not what Esbjerg need in a situation where some radical tactical changes are needed to protect a terrible defence. All four goals conceded last weekend could be blamed on poor defending.  Esbjerg were forced to use a winger on the right back position last weekend and could be forced to do the same here. Offensively, they are strong though, so they should be able to threaten FC Nordsjælland if they have any confidence left.

The situation is not looking good for Esbjerg at the moment. It is difficult to see how they will cope with attacking forces of Bruninho and Joshua John. FC Nordsjælland should be able to dominate this match and take advantage of the miserable state of Esbjerg.

Recommendation: 1 – 2.40 at Sportingbet