Stuttgart's return to the Champions League after a 15-year hiatus saw them play a lively game against Real Madrid in Madrid but fall short of earning any points (1:3). At home against Sparta Prague, the German side will focus on getting results—securing points against mid-table teams is crucial for them.
In this campaign, Stuttgart have consistently seen the total over 2.5 in their eight official matches. Following a draw with VfL Wolfsburg (2:2), they topped the Bundesliga xG table (13.45), with only Bayern Munich surpassing them in actual goals scored (14 goals vs 17). At the Santiago Bernabeu in their last Champions League round, Stuttgart were active but outclassed by Real Madrid's players (2.14 vs 2.74 xG and a 17-19 in shots). Tuesday will be the Germans' turn to play from a position of strength.
Sparta Prague's 15-match unbeaten run from the start of the campaign came to an end on Friday, as they were defeated at home by Sigma Olomouc (2:3). Prior to this, the Czech side had secured four consecutive clean-sheet victories, although they struggled defensively against Slovácko at the end of August (2:2). Their match against Red Bull Salzburg (3:0) benefited from a highly fortunate finishing—all thanks to an early goal by Kaan Kairinen that allowed them to play on the counter-attacks. However, now high pressure will force them to take more risks.
Sparta Prague cannot be underestimated; they have the potential to surprise in this Champions League run. A Stuttgart victory seems logical, but the German side has already dropped points this season, making the total over 2.5 a clear and reliable bet.
