Walsall vs Aston Villa predictions for this pre-season friendly. Aston Villa begin their Champions League preparations with a pre-season friendly against Walsall at the Bescot Stadium on Wednesday. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Club Friendlies: | Jul 17, 2024 at 7:30pm UK at Bescot Stadium
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Walsall vs Aston Villa Predictions
Can Villa Kickstart Their Pre-Season on a High Note?
Key Stats
– Tottenham have an average of 15.4 shots per game, indicating their attacking intent.
– Hearts have conceded an average of 1.1 goals per game, highlighting their defensive frailties.
– Heung-min Son scored 17 goals last season, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess.
Aston Villa begin their preparations for the upcoming Champions League season with a pre-season friendly against Walsall at the Bescot Stadium on Wednesday. Unai Emery’s side, fresh off a surprising top-four finish in the Premier League, will look to start their pre-season campaign with a convincing performance. Their hosts, Walsall, competing in League Two for the sixth consecutive season, will aim to test themselves against higher-tier opposition.
Match Preview
Aston Villa concluded the 2023-24 season on a bittersweet note, suffering heavy defeats in their final matches but still celebrating a remarkable campaign. A disappointing exit in the Europa Conference League semi-finals to Olympiacos and a 5-0 drubbing by Crystal Palace could not overshadow their incredible achievement of securing a top-four finish in the Premier League. This accomplishment means Villa will compete in the Champions League for the first time in 42 years, marking a significant milestone for the club.
Under the guidance of Emery, Villa have exceeded expectations, pipping heavyweight teams like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur to the fourth spot. Their success was built on a formidable home record, winning their first eight matches at Villa Park and securing 15 victories in total. This upcoming pre-season is crucial as they prepare for both domestic and European challenges.
On the other side, Walsall ended their League Two season in a rather uninspiring 11th place, conceding 73 goals along the way. Manager Mat Sadler, who has been at the helm since 2023, will use this pre-season to integrate new signings and fine-tune his squad. The Saddlers have already begun their pre-season with a 3-0 win over Alvechurch, showcasing a mix of first-team regulars and promising talents.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Aston Villa
Villa have been active in the transfer market, bringing in players like Ian Maatsen, Cameron Archer, Enzo Barrenechea, Samuel Iling-Junior, Ross Barkley, and Lewis Dobbin. However, several of their key players, including Jhon Duran, Ollie Watkins, Youri Tielemans, Ezri Konsa, John McGinn, and Emiliano Martinez, will miss this fixture due to their international commitments and need for rest.
Long-term absentees Boubacar Kamara and Emiliano Buendia are still recovering from knee injuries and will not feature. There is also uncertainty surrounding Moussa Diaby’s participation, as he is reportedly close to a move to Saudi Arabia.
Expected Starting Lineup: Olsen; Kesler-Hayden, Torres, Hause, Digne; Rogers, Barkley, Barrenechea, Ramsey; Archer, Dobbin
Walsall
Walsall have seen significant squad changes with nine departures and several new arrivals. Notable signings include Stoke City duo David Okagbue and Tommy Simkin. Both players started in the recent win over Alvechurch, and they are expected to feature prominently in the upcoming friendly.
Expected Starting Lineup: Simkin; C. Barrett, Williams, Okagbue, Farquharson, L. Gordon; Stirk, Lakin, Earing; J. Gordon, Matt
Tactical Analysis and Key Duels
Midfield Control
Aston Villa’s midfield, potentially featuring Ross Barkley and Enzo Barrenechea, will be crucial in dictating the tempo of the game. Barkley’s experience and vision, combined with Barrenechea’s youthful energy, can provide a dynamic presence in the middle of the park. Walsall’s midfield trio of Stirk, Lakin, and Earing will need to work cohesively to disrupt Villa’s rhythm and maintain possession.
Defence vs Attack
Walsall’s defence, led by Okagbue and Williams, will face a stern test against Villa’s attacking options. Cameron Archer and Lewis Dobbin will look to exploit any defensive lapses with their pace and movement. On the flip side, Walsall’s forwards, J. Gordon and Matt, will aim to challenge Villa’s defence, particularly targeting any weaknesses in communication and positioning.
Expected Gameplay and Dynamics
Aston Villa are likely to dominate possession and apply constant pressure on Walsall’s defence. Emery’s side will focus on high-intensity pressing and quick transitions, utilising their superior technical skills and tactical awareness. Set-pieces and wide play will be critical aspects of their strategy, aiming to create scoring opportunities through crosses and precise passes.
Walsall, conversely, may adopt a more conservative approach, focusing on solid defensive organisation and counter-attacks. Their goal will be to frustrate Villa and exploit any gaps left during transitions. Maintaining a compact shape and quick breaks will be essential for their game plan.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Aston Villa
Strengths: Villa’s primary strength lies in their attacking depth and creativity. With players like Barkley, Archer, and Ramsey, they possess the ability to break down defences and create numerous chances. Their high possession stats and effective pressing make them a formidable side.
Weaknesses: The absence of several key players due to international duties and injuries could affect their defensive stability and overall cohesion. Additionally, any over-reliance on new signings who have not yet fully integrated into the squad might pose a risk.
Walsall
Strengths: Walsall’s strengths include their resilience and ability to execute quick counter-attacks. Their recent signings have added depth to the squad, and their defensive organisation can frustrate opponents.
Weaknesses: Walsall’s defensive record from last season highlights vulnerabilities that a team of Villa’s calibre can exploit. Their lower possession stats and tendency to concede goals under pressure are significant concerns.
Managerial Analysis and Criticisms
Unai Emery has revitalised Aston Villa, implementing a tactical system that balances attacking flair with defensive solidity. However, his tendency to make wholesale changes during pre-season might affect the team’s fluidity and consistency.
Mat Sadler faces a challenging task at Walsall, especially with significant squad changes. His ability to integrate new players quickly and establish a cohesive tactical approach will be crucial. Criticisms of his managerial tenure include the team’s defensive lapses and inconsistent performances.
Predictions and Betting Angles
Best Bet: Both Teams to Score
Considering both teams’ attacking potential and defensive vulnerabilities, betting on both teams to score is a solid choice. Aston Villa’s attacking prowess should see them find the net, while Walsall’s counter-attacking ability gives them a good chance to score as well.
Correct Score Prediction: Aston Villa 3-1 Walsall
Reflecting Villa’s superior quality and Walsall’s defensive struggles, a 3-1 victory for Aston Villa seems plausible. Villa’s attacking firepower should secure a comfortable win, but Walsall might manage a consolation goal.
Goalscorer Prediction: Cameron Archer to Score Anytime
Cameron Archer’s goal-scoring ability and recent form make him a prime candidate to find the net. His movement and finishing skills will pose a significant threat to Walsall’s defence.
First Half Result Prediction: Aston Villa Leading
Given Aston Villa’s attacking strengths and Walsall’s defensive issues, Villa are expected to lead at half-time. Their high tempo and pressing will likely see them take control early in the match.
Innovative Market: Player Total Shots on Target – Ross Barkley Over 2.5
Barkley’s role as a creative midfielder and his knack for taking shots from distance make this a viable bet. Expect him to test the goalkeeper multiple times throughout the match.
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