Dinamo Zagreb and Borussia Dortmund face off at Stadion Maksimir in a crucial matchday five clash of the UEFA Champions League group stage.
Both sides are chasing vital points to secure qualification, with Dinamo Zagreb seeking to leverage their strong home performances against a Dortmund side notorious for inconsistent away form. This encounter promises an intriguing battle as both teams look to make their mark.
Dinamo Zagreb Recent Form
The Croatian champions enter this fixture in solid form, having lost just once in their last 11 matches across all competitions.
Despite this resilience, their recent struggles at home, including no wins in three matches and only one clean sheet in six, raise questions about their ability to maintain their position against high-calibre opposition.
Their last European outing saw a convincing 4-1 win over Slovan Bratislava, showcasing their attacking prowess.
Injury and Team News
Dinamo Zagreb are dealing with a few key absences. Midfielder Josip Misic is unlikely to feature following an injury in their recent domestic fixture, while forwards Bruno Petkovic and Juan Cordoba remain sidelined.
Manager Nenad Bjelica may opt for a front three of Dario Spikic, Sandro Kulenovic, and Marko Pjaca to compensate for their attacking losses.
Last Dinamo Zagreb Lineup
Here is how Dinamo Zagreb lined up for their last match:
Dortmund Recent Form
Dortmund have been plagued by inconsistency, having lost five of their last nine matches. Despite this, they are showing signs of improvement, winning three of their previous four games.
Their 4-0 win against Freiburg in the Bundesliga last weekend bolstered confidence, though their dismal away record, six straight losses, remains a concern.
Injury and Team News
The German side will likely miss Karim Adeyemi, who is still recovering from a hamstring issue, while Serhou Guirassy's availability remains uncertain.
Defensive injuries to Niklas Süle and midfielder Kjell Watjen mean Waldemar Anton and Nico Schlotterbeck are expected to anchor the backline, shielded by Emre Can and Felix Nmecha.
Last Dortmund Lineup
Here is how Borussia Dortmund lined up in their last match:
Dinamo Zagreb Player to Watch
Marko Pjaca – The forward has been a key creative outlet for Dinamo Zagreb, especially in the absence of Petkovic. His ability to exploit spaces and deliver in the final third will be crucial for the hosts.
Dortmund Player to Watch
Donyell Malen – With an 85th-minute winner in their last European outing, Malen’s knack for decisive moments makes him Dortmund’s most dangerous attacking threat.
Prediction
Given Dortmund’s poor away form and Dinamo Zagreb’s home inconsistencies, this matchup could end in a draw. Expect a high-scoring affair, with both sides eager to press for a result.
Our Prediction: Dinamo 2 - 2 Dortmund
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both teams to score – Given their attacking strengths and defensive vulnerabilities, a goal-filled game is likely.
Tip 2
Over 2.5 goals – Matches involving both teams often see a flurry of goals, making this a safe bet.
Tip 3
Draw – Dortmund’s away struggles and Dinamo’s home form point towards an even contest.
