Viktoria Plzen host Manchester United in a crucial UEFA Europa League fixture at the Doosan Arena on Thursday night, with both teams currently on nine points from their opening five matches.
Manchester United, under the new management of Ruben Amorim, are looking to recover from recent domestic stumbles, while Plzen are enjoying a strong unbeaten start to their European campaign. This match could prove decisive in determining who progresses to the knockout stages.
Viktoria Plzen Recent Form
Viktoria Plzen have been in excellent form, remaining unbeaten in their Europa League campaign thus far. Their last two outings in the competition resulted in victories over Real Sociedad and Dynamo Kyiv.
Domestically, they’ve been impressive as well, winning six of their last seven matches in all competitions. Currently second in the Czech First League, Plzen are demonstrating both resilience and momentum heading into this European clash.
Injury and Team News
Plzen are dealing with several absences. Svetozar Markovic is sidelined due to an injury sustained against Karvina, and Prince Kwabena Adu remains unavailable due to visa issues.
Jan Sykora, Christophe Kabongo, and Rafiu Durosinmi are all long-term absentees, while Cory Sene is ineligible for this fixture.
Last Plzen Lineup
Manchester United Recent Form
Manchester United's form has been inconsistent so far this season. They come into this game off the back of consecutive Premier League defeats to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest.
In the Europa League, however, they remain unbeaten with two wins and three draws. Ruben Amorim's side will be desperate to turn things around, and this European fixture provides a timely opportunity for redemption.
Injury and Team News
United are without Luke Shaw (muscle injury), while Victor Lindelof (groin) and Jonny Evans (knock) are doubtful. Ruben Amorim may look to rotate his side, with Harry Maguire, Noussair Mazraoui, and Tyrell Malacia pushing for starts. In midfield, Mason Mount, Casemiro, and Christian Eriksen are all in contention to return. Up front, Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee are competing for a starting spot.
Last Manchester United Lineup
Here is how Manchester United lined up for their last match:
Viktoria Plzen Player To Watch
Pavel Sulc has been in superb form, scoring 10 goals this season. He netted twice in Plzen’s recent league match and will be pivotal in their attack against United’s shaky defence.
Manchester United Player To Watch
Bruno Fernandes remains the creative heartbeat of United. If the Red Devils are to prevail, Fernandes’ vision and leadership will be crucial in breaking down a disciplined Plzen side.
Prediction
Despite Plzen's strong form and United’s recent struggles, the English side should have enough quality to edge this encounter.
Our Prediction: Viktoria Plzen 1-3 Manchester United.
Betting Tips
Tip 1 - Both Teams to Score
Plzen have found the net in their last seven matches, and United’s defence has shown vulnerabilities.
Tip 2 - Over 2.5 Goals
United’s attacking potential combined with Plzen’s recent form suggests a high-scoring affair.
Tip 3 - Bruno Fernandes to Score Anytime
Fernandes is United’s main penalty taker and a consistent threat from midfield.
