Brentford vs Aston Villa predictions for Sunday’s Premier League clash. Aston Villa, fresh off their victory in the Europa Conference League group, returns to Premier League action as they visit the Gtech Community Stadium, where Brentford will host Unai Emery’s team. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Match Live Sunday, 17th December at 2:00 pm In:
Brentford vs Aston Villa Predictions
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Villa’s Away Form Tested at Brentford: A Tactical and Predictive Analysis
Key Stats
– Brentford’s struggle for form amidst an injury crisis.
– Ollie Watkins’ impressive goal-scoring record this season.
Aston Villa, riding the wave of their Europa Conference League success, faces a Premier League test against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium. With Villa’s recent 1-1 draw against Zrinjski Mostar and Brentford’s loss to Sheffield United, both teams have distinct challenges and motivations heading into this clash.
Our Suggested Best Value Bet For This Match
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Best Value Bet Rationale
Norgaard, a key figure in Brentford’s midfield, is known for his tenacious and aggressive approach to ball recovery. His average rating of 7.13 reflects a consistent performance, but a deeper look into his stats reveals a propensity for physical challenges, with 1.3 fouls per game. In a match of high intensity, where Brentford will be eager to rectify their recent form, Norgaard’s role will be crucial in disrupting Aston Villa’s rhythm, increasing the likelihood of him committing fouls.
Aston Villa, under Unai Emery, have shown a blend of tactical discipline and attacking flair. Their midfield, orchestrated by players like John McGinn and Douglas Luiz, will pose a significant challenge for Norgaard. To contain Villa’s creative surge, Norgaard will be compelled to engage in crucial tackles and interceptions, raising the odds of him getting booked.
Moreover, Aston Villa’s recent confidence-boosting victories and Brentford’s urgency to bounce back from a string of losses set the stage for a highly competitive and potentially combative encounter. This scenario is likely to draw Norgaard into situations where he may be forced to commit tactical fouls, thus increasing the chances of him receiving a yellow card.
Given these factors, the prediction of Norgaard to be booked offers good value, especially with the enhanced odds currently available. As always, it’s important to remember that odds are subject to change, and terms and conditions apply.
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Brentford’s Injury Crisis and Form Struggles
Under Thomas Frank, Brentford has been grappling with an unprecedented injury crisis, impacting their recent performances. Despite a dominant win over Luton Town, they’ve suffered losses in four of their last five games, hinting at defensive frailties and a lack of clinical edge upfront. The absence of key players like Ivan Toney and Bryan Mbeumo has notably reduced their attacking threat.
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Aston Villa’s Rising Confidence
Unai Emery’s Villa has been making waves, most notably with victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, showcasing their title credentials. Their current standing, just a point behind Arsenal and two behind Liverpool, speaks volumes about their potential this season. However, Villa’s away form, with only three wins in their last 12 away Premier League games, presents a challenge that Emery will be keen to address.
Expected Lineups and Team Dynamics
Brentford, dealing with multiple injuries, might field Flekken; Ghoddos, Pinnock, Mee, Roerslev; Jensen, Norgaard, Janelt; Damsgaard, Maupay, Wissa. This lineup suggests a reliance on Maupay for goals and Janelt’s midfield control.
Aston Villa could start with Martinez; Konsa, Carlos, Torres, Moreno; Cash, Kamara, McGinn, Bailey; Diaby, Watkins. This lineup emphasises Watkins’ goal threat and McGinn’s midfield prowess.
Key Tactical Battles and Areas of the Match
- Midfield Duel: Villa’s McGinn and Kamara against Brentford’s Jensen and Norgaard will be crucial. Villa’s ability to control the midfield could dictate the game’s tempo.
- Defensive Solidity: Brentford’s backline, led by Pinnock, will be tested against Villa’s dynamic forwards like Bailey and Diaby.
Team Strategies and Managerial Approach
- Brentford’s Approach: Frank’s side might adopt a conservative approach, focusing on defensive stability and exploiting counter-attacking opportunities.
- Villa’s Strategy: Emery is expected to employ an aggressive game plan, exploiting Brentford’s defensive gaps and maintaining high pressing.
Managerial Insights
- Thomas Frank (Brentford): Frank’s challenge is to navigate the injury crisis and find a balance between attack and defence.
- Unai Emery (Aston Villa): Emery’s tactical versatility and ability to inspire his team are strengths, but he must address the inconsistency in away games.
Tactical Analysis and Predictions
1. Match Outcome: Aston Villa to Win
Aston Villa, under Unai Emery’s astute leadership, has demonstrated a notable upswing in form, especially highlighted by their recent triumphs against Manchester City and Arsenal. These performances have not only boosted their confidence but also showcased their tactical adaptability and resilience. In contrast, Brentford has been grappling with an injury crisis, which has significantly impacted their squad depth and on-field effectiveness. Given these contrasting trajectories, Villa’s balanced and dynamic attack, spearheaded by Watkins and supported by the likes of Bailey and McGinn, is likely to exploit the vulnerabilities in Brentford’s injury-hit squad. Therefore, an Aston Villa win seems the most plausible outcome, considering both teams’ current form and circumstances.
2. Correct Score: Brentford 1-2 Aston Villa
Predicting a 2-1 victory for Aston Villa aligns with the recent patterns and performances of both teams. Brentford, despite their struggles, have shown the capability to find the back of the net, especially at home. However, their defensive lapses, particularly in the latter stages of games, might allow Villa to capitalise. Aston Villa’s attack, which has been prolific and versatile, is expected to challenge Brentford’s defence consistently. A close contest with Villa edging out Brentford seems a likely scenario, given the current form and resilience of Emery’s team.
3. Goalscorer Prediction: Ollie Watkins to Score
Ollie Watkins, with his sharp attacking instincts and impressive form, stands out as a likely candidate to score. Facing his former club, Watkins would be keen to make an impactful statement. His ability to find space in the box, combined with his clinical finishing, makes him a constant threat. Villa’s creative midfield, likely to exploit Brentford’s weakened defence, can be expected to provide Watkins with ample scoring opportunities. His motivation in this particular fixture adds an extra edge to his goal-scoring potential.
4. First Half Result: Aston Villa Leading
Aston Villa has shown a tendency to start games with intensity and purpose under Emery’s guidance. This approach, coupled with Brentford’s recent trend of conceding early goals, lays the foundation for Villa to establish an early lead. The tactical setup that Emery is likely to employ will focus on exploiting Brentford’s defensive gaps from the get-go, aiming to secure an early advantage. Therefore, a scenario where Villa leads at the half-time whistle appears a likely outcome, considering both teams’ recent form and strategies.
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