Ferencvaros vs The New Saints predictions for this qualifying game in the Champions League. Ferencvaros begin their Champions League campaign on Tuesday evening, hosting The New Saints in the second qualifying round at Groupama Arena. Read on for all out free Champions League predictions and betting tips
Champions League | Jul 23, 2024 at 7pm UK at Groupama Arena
Ferencvarosi TC vs TNS Predictions
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Can Ferencvaros Seal a Commanding Lead Against The New Saints?
Key Stats
– Ferencvaros averaged 2.4 goals per game last season.
– TNS scored 117 goals in their domestic league campaign.
– Ferencvaros’s attacking prowess saw them earn an average of 7.3 corners per game last season.
As Ferencvaros prepare to kick off their Champions League campaign against The New Saints (TNS), the Hungarian champions aim to build on their domestic dominance with a strong performance in Europe. This match at the Groupama Arena promises to be a clash of contrasting styles and ambitions, with Ferencvaros entering the competition with high expectations, while TNS hope to make a significant impact against a superior opponent.
Ferencvaros: Building on Domestic Success
Ferencvaros are coming off the back of a highly successful domestic season, securing their sixth consecutive title by a substantial 16-point margin. Despite this success, the club faced some upheaval following the sudden departure of head coach Dejan Stankovic after a disappointing Magyar Kupa final defeat. The arrival of Pascal Jansen from AZ Alkmaar brings a fresh approach, with hopes of translating domestic success into European triumphs.
In pre-season, Ferencvaros showed promising form, with a 1-1 draw against CSKA Sofia, a 3-1 win over NK Istra, and a 2-2 draw with West Ham United. These matches have provided valuable preparation for the squad, showcasing their ability to compete against varied styles of play.
The New Saints: Underdogs with Ambition
The New Saints enter this fixture after a comprehensive victory over Decic in the first qualifying round, winning 4-1 on aggregate. Last season, TNS dominated the Welsh Premier League, finishing with 92 points and an impressive goal tally of 117. Despite their domestic prowess, they face a steep challenge against a Ferencvaros side with significant European experience.
Brad Young, who scored 29 goals in 36 appearances last season, will be pivotal for TNS. His form in the qualifiers, including three goals against Decic, suggests he could trouble the Ferencvaros defence. The Saints will need to be at their best defensively and hope to capitalise on any counter-attacking opportunities.
Expected Lineups and Tactical Approaches
Ferencvaros:
- Goalkeeper: Dibusz
- Defenders: Botka, Knoester, Cisse, Ramirez
- Midfielders: Loncar, Abu Fani, A. Toth
- Forwards: Traore, Pesic, Kehinde
The New Saints:
- Goalkeeper: Roberts
- Defenders: Daniels, Pask, Bodenham, Davies
- Midfielders: Brobbel, Clark, Redmond, Smith, Williams
- Forward: Young
Ferencvaros are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation, emphasising their attacking prowess with Pesic leading the line. Tosin Kehinde and Adama Traore will provide width and pace, while the midfield trio will look to control possession and create opportunities.
TNS, likely to deploy a 4-5-1 formation, will aim to stay compact defensively and rely on Brad Young’s ability to exploit any gaps in the Ferencvaros backline. The Welsh side’s captain, Daniel Redmond, will be crucial in midfield, dictating play and supporting the attack.
Key Duels and Tactical Battles
The match will likely be decided by key battles across the pitch. Brad Young’s clash with the Ferencvaros central defenders, particularly Knoester and Cisse, will be critical. If Young can find space and receive quality service, TNS might have a chance to surprise their hosts.
In midfield, the battle between Redmond and Abu Fani will be fascinating. Abu Fani’s ability to break up play and transition quickly could stifle TNS’s attempts to build attacks. Meanwhile, the pace and creativity of Kehinde and Traore on the wings against TNS’s full-backs Daniels and Davies will be another decisive factor.
Gameplay and Strategic Insights
Ferencvaros will look to dominate possession and use their attacking width to stretch TNS’s defence. With a high pressing game, they will aim to win the ball back quickly and create scoring opportunities for Pesic. The absence of star striker Barnabas Varga is a setback, but Pesic’s experience and skill should compensate.
TNS will focus on defensive solidity, aiming to frustrate Ferencvaros and hit them on the break. Their success hinges on maintaining their defensive shape and taking their chances on the counter-attack. The Welsh side’s strategy will likely involve deep defending and looking to exploit set-piece situations.
Team Strengths and Weaknesses
Ferencvaros:
Strengths:
- Dominant in possession, averaging 63.5% ball possession last season.
- High number of successful dribbles per game (11.3), showcasing their attacking flair.
- Solid defensive record with only 0.9 goals conceded per game.
Weaknesses:
- Vulnerability to counter-attacks, as they often push players forward.
- Occasional lapses in concentration, leading to errors.
The New Saints:
Strengths:
- Prolific goal-scoring record, particularly through Brad Young.
- Strong defensive organisation, conceding just 18 goals last season.
Weaknesses:
- Lack of experience against higher-quality opposition.
- Potential over-reliance on Brad Young for goals.
Managerial Analysis and Critique
Pascal Jansen, the new Ferencvaros manager, brings a tactical acumen from his time at AZ Alkmaar. His approach is likely to be possession-based, with an emphasis on quick transitions and exploiting wide areas. However, his inexperience in Hungarian football could be a potential pitfall as he adjusts to a new league and style of play.
Craig Harrison, leading TNS, has successfully built a dominant side in the Welsh Premier League. His tactical nous in setting up a compact, defensively resilient team is commendable. However, Harrison’s side may struggle against teams of Ferencvaros’s calibre due to a lack of depth and experience at this level.
Expected Goals Averages and Betting Angles
Ferencvaros have shown a high attacking output with an average of 2.4 goals per game last season. Their ability to create and convert chances, coupled with a strong defensive record, makes them clear favourites. TNS’s goal-scoring prowess in their league, with an average of 3.5 goals per game, will be tested severely.
For betting enthusiasts, Ferencvaros’s home form and defensive strength suggest a high chance of a clean sheet. TNS’s challenge will be breaking down a well-organised defence. Betting on a Ferencvaros win to nil could be a smart move, considering their defensive record.
Predictions
Best Bet: Ferencvaros -2 to Win
Ferencvaros are expected to dominate this fixture given their superior quality and home advantage. A two-goal margin seems highly likely, as they possess the firepower and defensive solidity to comfortably see off TNS. Pascal Jansen’s men will aim to make a statement with a convincing win, ensuring a solid lead before the second leg.
Correct Score: Ferencvaros 4-0 The New Saints
Considering Ferencvaros’s attacking capabilities and TNS’s defensive vulnerabilities, a 4-0 scoreline appears plausible. The Hungarian champions are likely to exploit the gaps in the TNS defence, and with the home crowd behind them, they should secure a comprehensive victory. This result aligns with the best bet, emphasising Ferencvaros’s dominance.
Goalscorer Prediction: Aleksandar Pesic
With Barnabas Varga sidelined, Aleksandar Pesic will lead the line for Ferencvaros. Pesic has the experience and quality to find the net against TNS. Supported by creative midfielders like Tosin Kehinde, Pesic is well-positioned to score, perhaps even multiple times, given the expected flow of the game.
Corner Prediction: Ferencvaros to Have More Corners
Ferencvaros’s attacking style and home advantage will likely result in a high number of corners. They averaged 7.3 corners per game last season, reflecting their forward momentum and pressure on opposition defences. TNS, on the other hand, may struggle to earn corners due to their defensive setup and limited possession.
Innovative Bet: Total Team Shots on Target Over 10
Ferencvaros’s offensive statistics indicate they average 6.8 shots on target per game. Given the expected dominance in this match, it’s reasonable to predict they will exceed their average. With players like Traore and Kehinde creating chances, and Pesic in front of goal, Ferencvaros should manage over 10 shots on target in this fixture.
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