ML Vitebsk’s aggressive approach and formation allows them to score goals regularly, but also leave a lot of space in the back. I expect Universitatea Craiova to capitalize on that the same way they did last week and claim another victory.
Key Stats
- Universitatea Craiova have won their last 4 home matches (Superliga).
- Universitatea Craiova have seen BTTS in their last 4 matches (including pre-season).
- ML Vitebsk have seen BTTS & over 2.5 goals in their last 7 matches.
Last Week’s Clash Was Their First H2H
This is going to be the second head to head match between ML Vitebsk and Universitatea Craiova.
Craiova Off to a Great Start
Craiova’s first official match this season was fantastic, taking a 4-1 win over ML Vitebsk on a neutral ground in Hungary last week. Assad Al Hamlawi was named man of the match, scoring a brace.
Last weekend, they hosted Universitatea Cluj in the Romanian Super Cup finals, had higher xG (0.93-0.60) and more shots 14-5 but the regular time ended without a winner. Later, Craiova won on penalties 5-3.
Universitatea Craiova became the Romanian champions last season for the first time since 1991, which is their fifth domestic title, finishing four points ahead of Universitatea Cluj, while winning the Romanian Cup as well after beating the same opponent on penalties.
Visitors Rarely Miss to Score
ML Vitebsk collapsed defensively in the first tie, allowing eight shots on target and suffering a 4-1 loss where Valeriy Gromyko was their sole scorer in the first half.
They secured the first title in the Belarusian top flight last season, finishing five points ahead Dinamo Minsk mostly thanks to great defensive numbers (allowed just 18 goals in 30 matches).
ML Vitebsk recently replaced manager Magomed Adiev and appointed Fiipp Sokolinskiy in mid-June, claiming back to back victories against Naftan 2-1 and Slavia Mozyr under his leadership.
Team News
Reserve goalkeeper Pavlo Isenko is injured for the hosts, while winger Alexandru Iamandache is doubtful due to a knee problem.
Midfielder Aleksey Nosko is injured for ML Vitebsk while rest of the squad is available. Artem Kontsevoy is their top performer this season with five goals and three assists.