VfB Stuttgart vs Sparta Prague: Champions League Preview and Predictions

Match Overview

VfB Stuttgart is set to host Sparta Prague in their second Champions League group stage match on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at the MHPArena in Stuttgart, Germany. This encounter marks the first competitive meeting between the two teams, although they did face each other in a friendly in January 2023, which Sparta Prague won 2-0.

Team News and Injuries

Stuttgart is dealing with several injury concerns, particularly in defense. Dan-Axel Zagadou is out with a knee injury, and Leonidas Stergiou is absent due to a back issue. Ameen Al Dakhil is also doubtful after struggling with illness. However, Atakan Karazor will be available despite his red card in the weekend's domestic match, as the suspension only applies to domestic games.

Sparta Prague also has its share of injuries, with Imanol Garcia out long-term with a knee injury. Mathias Ross and Elias Cobbaut are also set to miss the game, while Roman Mokrovics is a doubt. Despite these absences, Sparta is unlikely to make significant changes to the lineup that secured a 3-0 win over RB Salzburg in their opening Champions League match.

Predicted Lineups

Stuttgart's predicted lineup is: Nbel; Vagnoman, Rouault, Chabot, Mittelstdt; Stiller, Karazor; Rieder, Millot, Leweling; Undav. For Sparta Prague, the lineup is expected to be: Vindahl; Zeleny, Vitik, Panak; Preciado, Kairinen, Laci, Wiesner; Birmancevic, Olatunji, Haraslin.

Recent Form and Performance

Stuttgart had a strong showing in their Champions League opener against Real Madrid, despite losing 3-1. They have since demonstrated their prowess with a 5-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga and a late draw against Wolfsburg. Stuttgart remains unbeaten at home in 2024, winning six and drawing four of their last ten competitive home games.

Sparta Prague started their Champions League campaign with a 3-0 win over RB Salzburg but suffered their first domestic defeat of the season, losing 3-2 to Sigma Olomouc. They have been in good form overall, winning 13 of their last 15 games across all competitions.

Predictions and Betting Tips

Given Stuttgart's strong home record and their recent performances, they are favored to win. The match is expected to be high-scoring, with both teams likely to find the net. Betting tips suggest backing Stuttgart to win, with over 2.5 goals and both sides scoring.

The MHPArena is expected to be electric as Stuttgart seeks to earn their first points in the Champions League this season. With their high-octane style and home advantage, Stuttgart is poised to put on a show and secure a victory.

Match Details

The match kicks off at 17:45 BST (12:45 ET / 09:45 PT) and will be refereed by Manfredas Lukjancukas with Jerome Brisard as the VAR. Fans can watch the game on various TV channels and live streaming platforms.