The Champions League qualifying match between Slavia Prague and Union SG is set to be an exciting contest.
Both teams are eager to secure their spot in the group stages, making this clash highly anticipated. Here's a detailed look into the prediction, team form, and latest news for this crucial encounter.
Match Preview
Slavia Prague
Slavia Prague, having finished second in the Czech Liga, enters this qualifying round with high hopes.
They narrowly missed the league title to their city rivals Sparta Prague for the second consecutive season.
Their pre-season was impressive, winning four out of five matches. They started their league campaign with a 0-0 draw against Slovacko but bounced back with victories over Slovan Liberec and Dynamo Ceske Budejovice, maintaining a clean sheet in all three matches.
Slavia’s European pedigree is notable, having topped their Europa League group last season and achieving memorable wins, including a 2-0 triumph over Roma. Despite exiting the competition in the last 16 against AC Milan, they are keen to make a mark in the Champions League this year.
Union SG
Union Saint-Gilloise, known as Union SG, also finished second in their domestic league. They topped Belgium’s regular-season table but fell short in the final standings behind Club Brugge.
However, they did secure the Belgian Cup, ending a long wait for a major trophy. Under new boss Sebastien Pocognoli, Union SG started the season by winning the Super Cup against Club Brugge and securing their first league win against Beerschot after an initial draw with Dender.
Union SG had a solid run in European competitions last season, finishing third in their Europa League group and advancing past Eintracht Frankfurt in the Conference League playoffs before losing to Fenerbahce. They aim to carry this momentum into their Champions League campaign.
Team News
Slavia Prague
Slavia Prague may miss their main striker Vaclav Jurecka due to a contract dispute.
However, Euro 2024 joint-Golden Boot winner Ivan Schranz and top scorer Mojmir Chytil from last season’s Europa League are available.
Norwegian midfielder Conrad Wallem, despite interest from Preston North End, is expected to play alongside Liberia captain Oscar Dorley in midfield.
Union SG
Union SG will be without central defenders Ross Sykes and Christian Burgess due to injuries.
Madagascar midfielder Loic Lapoussin is also unavailable following a transfer request. Leading scorer Cameron Puertas is set to support Dennis Eckert in attack.
Prediction
Both teams have shown strong form early in their domestic campaigns. Slavia Prague's home advantage and solid defensive record might give them the edge in this first-leg match.
Our predicted scoreline is Slavia Prague 2-1 Union SG.
Slavia 
