M. Tel Aviv vs Midtjylland: Match Preview, Predictions, Team News
On Thursday, Maccabi Tel Aviv will face FC Midtjylland in a crucial Europa League match in Serbia. The Danish team aims to maintain their perfect record in this stage, having won their first two matches. In contrast, Maccabi Tel Aviv seeks their first victory of the league phase.
Match Overview
Maccabi Tel Aviv’s recent form in the Europa League has been challenging. After dropping out of the Champions League qualifying rounds, they secured their place in the Europa League by overcoming Hamrun Spartans and Dynamo Kiev. However, they started their league phase with a goalless draw against PAOK and subsequently lost 3-1 to Dinamo Zagreb.
The Israeli champions managed a 1-1 draw against Maccabi Haifa in their latest match, which keeps them in second place in the Israeli Premier League. Despite an injury-time equalizer from their opponents, Maccabi Tel Aviv hopes to capitalize on their upcoming game against FC Midtjylland.
FC Midtjylland’s Progress
FC Midtjylland’s European journey began in the second round of qualifiers, where they advanced past teams like Hibernian and Fredrikstad. They launched their league phase with a solid 2-0 victory over Sturm Graz, followed by an impressive win at Nottingham Forest, finishing that match 3-2. They have not lost in their last seven games across all competitions.
Team Form and Statistics
- Maccabi Tel Aviv Europa League Form: WWWLDL
- Maccabi Tel Aviv Overall Form: WWDDLD
- FC Midtjylland Europa League Form: WWWWWW
- FC Midtjylland Overall Form: WWWWDW
Key Players
The Yellows are expected to rely on the attacking prowess of Dor Peretz, who leads the team with seven goals this season. Young talent Sayd Abu Farhi is anticipated to play a significant role, especially after scoring against Dinamo Zagreb.
On the other side, FC Midtjylland will be looking to capitalize on the form of striker Franculino, who recently scored two goals in their last match. The squad also boasts talents like Valdemar Byskov and Paulinho, strengthening their performance on the field.
Potential Lineups
Maccabi Tel Aviv
- Mishpati; Asante, Shlomo, Camara, Revivo; Belic, Noy; Abu Farhi, Andrade, Varela; Peretz
FC Midtjylland
- Olafsson; Lee, Erlic, Sorensen; Byskov, Billing, Bravo, Paulinho; Simsir, Franculino, Osorio
Match Prediction
With FC Midtjylland’s excellent form and strong tactical approach under Coach Mike Tullberg, they are favored to win. Maccabi Tel Aviv faces a formidable challenge as they aim to secure their first league-phase points.
Final Prediction: Maccabi Tel Aviv 0 – 2 FC Midtjylland