The League of Ireland Premier Division match between Dundalk and Derry City is set to take place on Friday evening at Oriel Park.
This encounter promises to be an intriguing clash as both teams aim to secure crucial points in their respective campaigns.
Team Form and Recent Performances
Dundalk
Dundalk is currently struggling at the bottom of the league table, sitting three points adrift from safety.
Their season has been a challenging one, with only two victories recorded so far. However, those wins came in their last six games, indicating a potential upward trajectory.
Impressively, Dundalk has managed to keep three consecutive clean sheets at home, showcasing their defensive solidity.
Recent Form: Dundalk League of Ireland Premier form: WDLWL
Derry City
On the other hand, Derry City is positioned second in the table and will be keen to maintain their spot.
Despite their lofty position, Derry has not managed to string together more than two consecutive wins this season.
Recent performances have been mixed, with two wins, two draws, and two losses in their last six games.
Recent Form: Derry City League of Ireland Premier form: DDWWLD
Team News and Lineups
Dundalk
Dundalk might see some changes in their lineup with John Mountney potentially replaced by Hayden Muller after an early withdrawal against Galway.
Mayowa Animasahun may move into a central midfield role, while Cameron Elliott and Eoin Kenny are alternatives to Jamie Gullan in the attack.
Possible Starting XI
Munro; Davies, Muller, Boyle, Bradshaw, Johnson; Durrant, Doyle, Animasahun, Horgan; Gullan
Derry City
Derry City may introduce Cameron Dummigan, Cameron McJannett, and Patrick McEleney, who all made significant impacts as substitutes in their last match against Sligo Rovers.
Ronan Boyce, Sam Todd, and Sadou Diallo are at risk of missing out.
Possible Starting XI
Maher; Dummigan, McElneny, McJannett, Doherty; McEleney, O'Reilly, Patching; McMullan, Hoban, Duffy
Match Prediction
While Dundalk hopes that home advantage will play a pivotal role, they face a formidable opponent in Derry City, the division's joint-top goalscorers.
Considering Derry's attacking prowess and Dundalk's struggles in finding the back of the net, we believe that a 3-1 victory for Derry City is anticipated.
Dundalk 
Derry City 
