Sevilla – FC Copenhagen : Preview & Prediction
At least one club will put an end to its hopes of going far in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) on Tuesday at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán. Sevilla FC and Copenhagen need six points from their last two Group G games – and are also dependent on other results going their way – to maintain their chances of advancing to the last 16. The winner of the clash will at least guarantee a place in the Europa League play-offs.
Sevilla continue to suffer in this busy opening stretch of the campaign and face a crucial match after losing 3-1 away to Real Madrid, their first defeat in the new phase under Jorge Sampaoli. Los Blanquirrojos equalized at the start of the second half, but two late goals from Los Blanquirrojos denied Sevilla, who have not won at the Bernabéu for 14 years. In only two of their 15 official matches this season have Sevilla won the second half (G2, E4, P9), a poor performance in the second 45 minutes that has contributed significantly to their desperate situation in the UCL.
The defense is holding Copenhagen, which has drawn 0-0 at home to Sevilla and Manchester City (leaders), maintaining minimal chances of qualifying. Considering that they are the only team with no goals scored in this group stage, it seems a miracle that the Danish side is still in the fight for the round of 16 places.
Like their hosts, Copenhagen have struggled as the matches have progressed, recording one of the lowest conversion rates in the Superliga when opening the scoring (G5, E2, P3). Last Wednesday, Jacob Neestrup’s side needed a penalty shootout to eliminate Hobro (second division) in the Danish Cup. After four clean sheets in Group G, Copenhagen do not look in the best frame of mind for their first win over a Spanish club (E5, P8).
Players to watch: Red-and-Whites midfielder Thomas Delaney returns to the club where he started his career and made 250 appearances, winning nine titles. Lukas Lerager, who scored early for Copenhagen on matchday five of last season’s Conference League, will need to be careful after being cautioned in his last three competitive games.
Standout series: Copenhagen have played 14 games in all competitions with only one goal or none.
Sevilla – FC Copenhagen : Betting Tips
Sevilla – Win Odds: 1.45
