Ferencváros vs Midtjylland Prediction: Ferencváros 1-2 Midtjylland (aggregate 1-4): Danish side’s away strength likely to overcome Hungarian champions’ home advantage, securing Champions League playoff spot.
The stage is set for a crucial Champions League third qualifying round second leg clash as Hungarian champions Ferencváros host Danish powerhouse FC Midtjylland at the Groupama Arena in Budapest. With the visitors holding a 2-0 advantage from the first leg, Ferencváros face an uphill battle to keep their Champions League dreams alive.
Match Details
Date: August 13, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM local time (CEST)
Venue: Groupama Arena, Budapest
Match Preview
The Hungarian champions find themselves in a precarious position after a disappointing first-leg performance in Denmark. Goals from Adam Buksa and Franculino gave Midtjylland a comfortable cushion, leaving Ferencváros with a mountain to climb in Budapest.
Ferencváros will draw inspiration from their strong home form and the vociferous support of their fans at the Groupama Arena. The hosts must strike a delicate balance between pushing for goals and maintaining defensive solidity to prevent Midtjylland from scoring a potentially tie-killing away goal.
Midtjylland, on the other hand, will look to leverage their recent run of clean sheets and clinical finishing to see out the tie. The Danish side’s experience in European competitions could prove crucial in managing the pressure of a high-stakes away fixture.
Team News and Projected Lineups
Ferencváros
Pascal Jansen’s side will be boosted by their weekend domestic victory, but face a significant challenge in overturning the two-goal deficit. The Hungarian champions are expected to field an attacking lineup in their quest for goals.
Projected Formation: 4-2-3-1
Ferencváros Lineup: Maiga, Civic, Traore, Gustavo, Ben Romdhane, Pesic, Cisse, Rommens, Makreckis, Borges, Dibusz.
Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane’s impressive brace in the weekend’s league match may have earned him a starting spot, likely replacing Tosin Kehinde on the left flank.
FC Midtjylland
Thomas Thomasberg’s men come into this fixture with confidence, having maintained their unbeaten run and impressive defensive record. The Danish side will aim to protect their lead while remaining dangerous on the counter.
Projected Formation: 4-4-2
FC Midtjylland Lineup: Diao, Simsir, Juninho, Olafsson, Sorensen, Martinez, Castillo, Bech Sorensen, Andersson, Buksa, Osorio.
Oliver Sorensen’s goal in their recent league victory should see him retain his place alongside Adam Buksa in attack.
Key Absences
Midtjylland will be without long-term absentees Kristoffer Olsson, Cho Gue-sung, Paulinho, and Marrony. Young left-back Victor Bak is also sidelined with an unspecified condition.
Ferencváros report no major injury concerns heading into this crucial fixture.
Recent Form
Ferencváros: W-L-W-W-W
Midtjylland: W-W-W-W-D
Both teams come into this match on the back of 2-0 victories in their respective domestic leagues, showcasing their good form and confidence.
Head-to-Head
The first leg encounter marked the first-ever meeting between these two sides in European competition. Midtjylland’s 2-0 victory gives them a significant advantage in this fledgling rivalry.
Where to Watch Live?
Ferencváros vs Midtjylland Live Streaming and TV Schedule
For viewers in top-tier countries, the following broadcast options are available:
- Denmark: Viaplay Denmark, TV3+ HD
- Faroe Islands: TV3+ HD
- Hungary: M4 Sports
Fans in other regions are advised to check their local listings or the official club websites for updated information on where to watch the match.
Who Will Win?
While Ferencváros will undoubtedly put up a fierce fight in front of their home crowd, overturning a two-goal deficit against a well-organized Midtjylland side is a tall order. The visitors’ recent defensive solidity and the hosts’ need to push forward could create opportunities for Midtjylland on the counter.
Ferencváros vs Midtjylland Prediction: Ferencváros 0-1 FC Midtjylland (Midtjylland to advance 3-0 on aggregate)
The Hungarian side may find a goal to give their fans hope, but Midtjylland’s experience and tactical discipline should see them through to the next round of qualifying. The Danish outfit’s ability to manage the game and potentially strike on the break will likely prove decisive in securing their passage to the Champions League playoff round.
Also Read: