Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the UEFA Champions League match
After Lille eliminated Fenerbahçe in the last round (3:2 on aggregate), the French side was drawn with a relatively easier opponent, Slavia Prague. The Czech club will strive to make a statement in the return leg, and at the stadium in Valenciennes, the team will have to counter the French side's positional attacks.
Lille
Following their victory in the first match against Fenerbahçe, Lille showed impressive attacking efficiency in Istanbul (17-14 in shots), but they still conceded late in regular time. In extra time, the team's best forward Jonathan David stepped up, the Canadian securing the win for Lille even though they were down to ten men. In the first round of Ligue 1, Lille beat Stade de Reims (2-0 with 1.66 xG vs 0.06 xG), but lost yet another player to injury. Bruno Génésio is currently unable to use three key defensive players (Samuel Umtiti, Aissa Mandi, and Akim Zedadka).
Slavia Prague
Injuries to Slavia Prague’s squad (with six players out of the game) have not hindered the team from embarking on a seven-match winning streak in official games. In five of those matches, the Czech side scored at least two goals, and their convincing performance against a strong Union Saint-Gilloise (4:1 on aggregate) showcased their strength. Even against formidable opponents, Slavia Prague will not shy away from their familiar high pressing tactics.
Lille - Slavia Prague Prediction
The attacking mindset combined with mutual squad losses is likely to open up the match. We expect both teams to hit total over 2 sooner rather than later.
