Stuttgart face Sparta Prague in their second group-stage match in the Champions League this Tuesday, after a hard-fought 3-1 loss to Real Madrid. The German side hopes to recover with a win in front of their home crowd.
Stuttgart Recent Form
Stuttgart's start to the season has been mixed. Despite a valiant effort against Real Madrid in their opening Champions League match, they fell short 3-1.
In domestic action, they crushed Borussia Dortmund 5-1 but could only muster a 2-2 draw with Wolfsburg, with a late goal from Deniz Undav saving them from defeat.
Injury and Team News
Stuttgart captain Atakan Karazor will be available for this match, despite his red card in the Bundesliga, as his suspension does not apply to European games.
However, their defence will be depleted with the absence of Dan-Axel Zagadou and Leonidas Stergiou due to injuries. Nikolas Nartey and Justin Diehl are also out.
Last Stuttgart Lineup
Here is how Stuttgart lined up for their last Bundesliga match against Wolfsburg:
Sparta Prague Recent Form
Sparta Prague have started their Champions League campaign strong, defeating Red Bull Salzburg 3-0 in their opener.
However, they suffered a shock 3-2 home defeat to Sigma Olomouc in the Czech Liga over the weekend, snapping a 28-game unbeaten run.
Injury and Team News
Sparta will miss centre-backs Mathias Ross and Elias Cobbaut, as well as left-back Imanol Garcia.
Manager Brian Priske is expected to stick to the lineup that served them well in the Champions League opener against Salzburg.
Last Sparta Prague Lineup
Here is how Sparta Prague lined up in their recent Czech Liga match:
Stuttgart Player to Watch
Deniz Undav has been in fine form, scoring crucial goals for Stuttgart, including the late equaliser against Wolfsburg. He will be key to unlocking Sparta Prague’s defence.
Sparta Prague Player to Watch
Victor Olatunji, who found the net against Salzburg, is a dangerous forward who can exploit gaps in Stuttgart’s injury-hit defence.
Prediction
Stuttgart's attacking abilities should be too much for a Sparta Prague side reeling from their weekend defeat.
We predict a 3-1 win for the German side.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both teams to score – Stuttgart have been involved in high-scoring games, and Sparta Prague will also fancy their chances.
Tip 2
Over 2.5 goals – Stuttgart have seen plenty of goals in their matches this season.
Tip 3
Stuttgart to win – The home side should have enough firepower to take the three points.
