FC Hradec Kralove

vs

FC Viktoria Plzen

Preview

FC Hradec Kralove

• Hradec have had a similarly inconsistent spell in recent games, with 2 wins, 1 draw and 2 losses from their last 5 league games.
• David Horejs has set Hradec up in a pragmatic, transition-focused 3-4-3 shape, which sets up interesting tactical matchups on Sunday.

FC Viktoria Plzen

• FC Viktoria Plzen have had a mixed spell of results in recent weeks, winning just 1, drawing 2 and losing 2 of their last 5 games.
• This included a 3-0 defeat away to mid-table FC Trinity Zlín and a penalty shootout defeat to Panathinaikos in the Europa League after a 1-1 draw.
• 4th placed Plzen have 42 points from 24 matches.
• Viktoria boss Martin Hysky has quickly switched the side to a more high-tempo back 3 system.
• The team now press much higher up the field and play in a much more vertical fashion.

Head-to-Head

• The last 2 meetings between these sides have resulted in a Plzen win and a 3-3 draw five months ago.
• The match finished with a flurry of goals as both sides’ offensive play was on full display.

Key Players

• Daniel Vasulin
  • Daniel Vasulin leads the line for Plzen with 9 goals in 18 league games this season.
• Vladimir Darida
  • Darida has made 23 appearances in the league and scored 8 goals; he also has 2 goals in Hradec’s last 5.

Betting Insights

• Plzen are the bookies favourites at 1.98 to win this away game and we feel they are likely to just edge a closely contested match.
• The odds for Over 2.5 goals (1.94) in this game are available and Both Teams to Score - Yes (1.75) is also priced up.
• We feel these odds are good value and a goal-filled game looks likely given both sides’ attacking strengths and their recent head to head.

Prediction

• Both teams use a back 3 system, with wing-backs often being an outlet to push forward.
• Hradec have a presence in central midfield, which should make it interesting in central areas and the match should provide entertaining football.
• We feel they are likely to just edge a closely contested match.