Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the UEFA Champions League match.
In a tough match against Maccabi Tel Aviv, FCSB lost a lot of energy, making it almost impossible for them to beat Sparta in Prague. Unlike the Czech club, who easily defeated Irish team Shamrock (6:2 on aggregate) and rightfully became the favourite in the first match.
Sparta Prague
Last week, Sparta again showed great attacking play against Shamrock (18-6 on shots, 66-32 in possession), which led them to the win (4:2). Against Dukla, the team also focused on attack, the favourite created 2.38 xG against the opponent's 0.03 and took three points with a serious advantage in chances (2:0 and 8-0 in shots on target). Sparta's current form allows them to reach the Champions League group stage.
FCSB
After easy wins over Virtus in the first qualifying round (11:1 aggregate score), FCSB was lucky to get past Maccabi. On a neutral field in Budapest, the decisive goal was scored in the last minute of regular time, and the Romanian club mostly didn't have an advantage in play (48-52 in possession). Now they face a tougher opponent who plays strongly at home (27 wins in 35 Czech league matches last season).
Sparta Prague - FCSB Prediction
Sparta has every chance to pull ahead in the score at their home stadium. The away match in Bucharest might bring many unpleasant surprises, so now they need to beat FCSB.
