Midtjylland vs Fredrikstad
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Midtjylland
Midtjylland’s Season Start
“Midtjylland” can boast about their start to the new season, remaining undefeated in seven games across all competitions. However, the catch is that they’ve only managed to secure victories in three of those matches.
Domestic League Performance
In the domestic league, the Danish side has only collected six points out of a possible twelve. This is despite facing opponents of moderate caliber: “Odense” (3-3), “SonderjyskE” (6-2), “Aarhus” (0-0), and “Fredericia” (3-3).
Europa League Journey
Their Europa League campaign has also been less than straightforward. It initially seemed that Thomas Thomasberg’s charges would comfortably overcome “Hibernian”. However, in their initial home leg, the Scottish team managed to secure a draw – 1-1. Yet, in Scotland, “Midtjylland” clinched the victory, primarily owing to their superior quality and European competition experience – 2-1. In the second round against “Fredrikstad”, another crucial away victory was secured – 3-1.
Team News: Injuries
Thomasberg will certainly be without the injured Diao, while Castillo might still be included in the squad – a decision will be made closer to match time.
League Standings
AZ Alkmaar
8
3
2
3
13-13
11
Midtjylland
8
3
2
3
9-9
11
Union Saint-Gilloise
8
3
2
3
8-8
11
Europa League (Round of 32 Playoffs)
Expand Full Table
Fredrikstad
Fredrikstad’s Return to Europe
“Fredrikstad” has returned to European competitions for the first time in 16 years, commencing their campaign directly from the third qualifying round. However, they might immediately drop into the Conference League, given the outcome of their first match against the Danish side.
Domestic League Struggles
The Norwegian team had an impressive start to the new season, even being considered contenders for the gold medals for a period. However, their momentum didn’t last. In their last ten domestic league fixtures, they only managed to secure ten out of a possible thirty points. This naturally had a significant impact on their league standing, placing them in seventh position. While championship aspirations and silver medals are now out of reach, qualifying for European competitions is still possible, as they are only seven points behind the fourth spot. It’s worth noting, however, that this is only Fredrikstad’s second year in the elite Norwegian division, making their current progress quite remarkable.
Team News: Fredrikstad Injuries
Andreas Hagen’s injury list also appears relatively clean, with only Faraas reported as injured.
Match Prediction and Betting Tip
For me, “Midtjylland” is not a clear-cut favorite in this encounter. While they secured a two-goal victory away from home, “Fredrikstad” certainly didn’t appear inferior. Furthermore, the Danish side cannot rely heavily on their home advantage, having won only one of their three home matches so far. The Norwegians’ away form isn’t stellar, but they show comparable statistics: four wins, five draws, and three losses, with 19 goals scored and 12 conceded. If lower-ranked opponents have consistently challenged Midtjylland on their home turf, then the visitors are certainly capable of doing the same. I would lean towards an “Over 3 Goals” bet, considering not just the first leg’s outcome but also the average goal tallies this season – 4.14 for Midtjylland and 2.81 for Fredrikstad.
Mark Thompson
