The Daily Star Ireland
Feyenoord’s performance in the Champions League has been inconsistent this season. They have secured two away wins against Girona (3-2) and Benfica (3-1), but have suffered home defeats to Leverkusen (0-4) and Salzburg (1-3). In their most recent match, Feyenoord managed a 3-3 draw at Manchester City, despite being down 3-0 with just fifteen minutes left.
These results place them 21st in the rankings, three points ahead of PSG, who are in 25th place and currently on the verge of elimination. Domestically, Feyenoord is 4th in the Eredivisie, a position that falls short of their supporters’ expectations.
Following the draw at Manchester City, Feyenoord was held to another 1-1 draw by Sittard and faced Waalwijk next. On the other hand, Sparta Prague faces a tough challenge to advance past the league phase of the Champions League. They have three losses, including a heavy 6-0 defeat to Atlético de Madrid.
They had earned four points in their first two matches but now sit 28th in the standings, two points short of the top 24 needed to move to the next stage. Domestically, they are 4th in the Czech league, trailing rivals Slavia Prague by 16 points. Sparta Prague had not won in their last six matches across all competitions before their league games against Karvina and Bohemians.
Feyenoord’s lineup for the Champions League lacks goalkeeper Andreev, injured left-back Hartman, and young player Read. Midfielder Nadje is also suspended. Additionally, left-back Bueno and forwards Osman and Ueda are out due to injuries. Feyenoord will depend on Hadj Moussa, Gimenez, and Hancko, who were instrumental against Manchester City. Former Nice player Lotomba is also notable.
Sparta Prague is missing injured full-back Garcia de Albenil, along with several key players like Zeleny, Preciado, Birmancevic, Cobbaut, Sörensen, Solbakken, Haraslin, and Danek. Olatunji and Kairinen, who have each scored twice in the Champions League, are their top scorers.
Prediction
Sparta Prague has struggled recently, earning just two points from their last 24 away games and failing to score more than one goal in their last 14 top-flight away matches. In contrast, Feyenoord has won six of their last seven home league matches, outscoring opponents 19-3.
Prediction: Feyenoord 4 : 0 Sparta Prague
