FC Midtjylland vs UE Santa Coloma Prediction: FC Midtjylland is expected to secure a 3-0 victory over UE Santa Coloma, advancing with a 6-0 aggregate score in their Champions League qualifier.
The MCH Arena in Herning, Denmark is set to host a crucial UEFA Champions League second qualifying round second leg match between FC Midtjylland and UE Santa Coloma on July 31, 2024. With the Danish side holding a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg, this encounter promises to be an intriguing battle as both teams vie for a spot in the next round of Europe’s premier club competition.
Match Details
Date: July 31, 2024 Time: 17:15 UTC
Venue: MCH Arena, Herning, Denmark
Competition: UEFA Champions League Qualification, Second Qualifying Round (Second Leg)
Match Preview
FC Midtjylland enter this home fixture with a comfortable cushion, thanks to goals from Franculino Dju, Ousmane Diao, and Aral Simsir in the first leg. The Danish side dominated possession and created numerous chances in Andorra, showcasing the gulf in quality between the two teams.
UE Santa Coloma will need to produce one of the biggest upsets in Champions League history if they are to overturn the deficit. The Andorran champions struggled to make an impact in the first leg, managing just three shots on target despite playing at home.
Midtjylland’s recent domestic form has been somewhat inconsistent, with back-to-back draws in the Superliga. However, their European experience and the quality of their squad should be more than enough to see them through to the next round.
Santa Coloma’s task is made even more daunting by the fact that they are yet to begin their domestic season, potentially lacking match sharpness. Their previous round victory over FC Balkany on penalties shows they have the ability to surprise, but overcoming a three-goal deficit against a much stronger opponent seems a bridge too far.
FC Midtjylland vs UE Santa Coloma Lineups and Team News
FC Midtjylland
The Danish champions enter this home fixture with a significant advantage, but manager Thomas Thomasberg is unlikely to take any chances. Midtjylland are dealing with a few injury concerns that may impact their lineup selection.
Predicted Formation: 4-3-3
Possible FC Midtjylland Lineup: Osorio, Simsir, Olafsson, Bech, Castillo, Gabriel, Bak, Soerensen, Diao, Franculino, Buksa.
Keep an eye on young Nigerian striker Musiliu Olayinka Odekunle, who recently joined the club and could make his European debut in this match.
UE Santa Coloma
The Andorran side faces an uphill battle after a disappointing home performance in the first leg. New manager Ramon Caldere will need to inspire a miraculous turnaround if Santa Coloma are to progress.
Predicted Formation: 4-3-3
Possible UE Santa Coloma Lineup: Joaquinete, Chete, Garcia, Bolivar, Mohedano, El Ghazoui, Lopez, Blasco, Molina, Tellado, Navarro.
Victor Tellado, who came off the bench in the first leg and nearly scored, is expected to start as Santa Coloma search for goals.
Injury Report and Unavailable Players
FC Midtjylland
The Danish side is dealing with several key absences as they head into this crucial match:
- Paulinho – Knee injury, expected return in August
- Gue-sung Cho – Knee injury, sidelined until mid-August
- Marrony – Knee injury, out until late August
UE Santa Coloma
As of the latest reports, Santa Coloma has:
- No known injuries
- No suspensions or other unavailable players
This injury and availability update highlights the challenges facing FC Midtjylland in their attacking options, while Santa Coloma appears to have a full squad at their disposal for this crucial second leg encounter.
Form Guide
FC Midtjylland
- Last 5 matches (all competitions): W-D-D-D-W
- The Wolves have had a mixed start to their domestic campaign, drawing their opening two Superliga matches.
UE Santa Coloma
- Last 5 matches (all competitions): L-W-L-L-D
- The Andorran champions have struggled for form in their recent outings, with their only win coming via penalties in the previous qualifying round.
Head-to-Head
The first leg encounter was the only previous meeting between these two sides, resulting in a comfortable 3-0 victory for FC Midtjylland in Andorra.
Where to Watch FC Midtjylland vs UE Santa Coloma Live?
For viewers in the United States, unfortunately, no TV channels or streaming services have been confirmed for broadcasting this match. Fans should check their local listings or the official UEFA Champions League website for potential last-minute updates on viewing options.
TV Schedule for Other Countries:
- Denmark: Viaplay Denmark, TV3+ HD
- Faroe Islands: TV3+ HD
Fans in other countries should check their local listings for potential broadcast information.
Who Will Win? Correct Score Prediction
Given the first leg result and the overall quality difference between the two sides, it’s difficult to see anything other than a comfortable FC Midtjylland victory. The Danish team will likely control possession and create numerous chances, while Santa Coloma may struggle to make an impact.
FC Midtjylland vs UE Santa Coloma Prediction: FC Midtjylland 3-0 UE Santa Coloma (6-0 on aggregate)
Midtjylland should comfortably progress to the next round, where they are likely to face a tougher test against the winner of the tie between Ferencvaros and The New Saints.
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