RB Leipzig and Aston Villa are set to clash in a crucial Champions League group-stage encounter. While Aston Villa are looking to secure their progression, Leipzig will be fighting for pride and a slim chance of advancing.
RB Leipzig Recent Form
Leipzig's European campaign has been dismal so far, losing all five of their matches. Despite strong performances against elite opponents like Atlético Madrid, Liverpool, and Juventus, they have fallen short each time, often by narrow margins.
Domestically, Leipzig's form has been more encouraging, with recent victories helping them stay competitive in the Bundesliga top four.
Injury and Team News
Leipzig are missing several key players for this match. Castello Lukeba is suspended and also dealing with a thigh injury.
Xavi Simons (ankle), El Chadaille Bitshiabu (muscular), Eljif Elmas (hamstring), Yussuf Poulsen (thigh), and David Raum (ankle) are all unavailable.
Last Leipzig Lineup
Here is how Leipzig lined up for their last match:
Aston Villa Recent Form
Villa started their Champions League campaign with flair, winning three matches without conceding. However, a dip in form followed, with a loss to Club Brugge and a draw with Juventus.
They have since recovered domestically, securing back-to-back wins over Brentford and Southampton. Unai Emery's men will be looking to maintain their defensive solidity and secure a playoff spot.
Injury and Team News
Leon Bailey will miss out after sustaining a hamstring injury against Southampton. Jacob Ramsey (hamstring) is also unavailable. However, Amadou Onana returned at the weekend, boosting Villa’s midfield options.
Last Aston Villa Lineup
Here is how Villa lined up for their last match:
RB Leipzig Player to Watch
Benjamin Sesko is Leipzig’s standout performer, scoring three of their four Champions League goals this season. He also found the net in their recent Bundesliga win over Holstein Kiel.
Aston Villa Player to Watch
Jhon Duran has made a strong impact in the Champions League, with two goals to his name. His role as a ‘super-sub’ has been crucial, and his ability to take shots from outside the box adds a dynamic threat.
Prediction
Leipzig are desperate for a first European win, and despite Villa's solid defence, their vulnerability on the road could be a factor. Expect a close match.
Our Prediction: RB Leipzig 2-1 Aston Villa
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both Teams to Score: Leipzig’s attack, led by Sesko, is potent, while Villa’s attacking options have been consistent.
Tip 2
Over 2.5 Goals: With both sides needing a result, this match could see plenty of goal-scoring chances.
Tip 3
Benjamin Sesko to Score Anytime: The Slovenian forward has been Leipzig's key player in Europe and is in good form.
