Salzburg vs D. Zagreb Prediction: 24/10/2024

Despite having a relatively favorable schedule at the start of the Champions League, Salzburg has struggled significantly so far. They have been unable to score in their first two matches, suffering heavy defeats away to Sparta Prague (3-0) and at home against Brest (0-4).

A strong reaction is expected this week against what appears to be another manageable opponent. Salzburg, who dominated their domestic league from 2014 to 2023, lost their title last year, finishing second behind Sturm Graz.

This season, they have had a slow start, sitting in 5th place with two games in hand and trailing the leader by six points. Just before the international break, they suffered a crushing 5-0 defeat to Sturm Graz and last weekend hosted the struggling Altach.

Dinamo Zagreb, considered one of the weaker teams in the Champions League, raised concerns with their humiliating 9-2 loss to Bayern Munich on matchday one. However, two weeks later, they showed resilience, holding Monaco to a 2-2 draw despite surrendering a two-goal lead in the final 15 minutes.

As the reigning seven-time champions, Dinamo is the favorite to win their domestic league again this season. They currently sit in 3rd place, just two points behind the leaders Hadjuk Split. After a rough patch of three games without a win (1 draw and 2 losses), they bounced back with victories over Lokomotiv Zagreb (5-1) and Varazdin (1-0) just before the international break. Last weekend, Dinamo played away to Istra.

Salzburg faces several key absences this week, including potential starters Terzic, Morgalla (defenders), Kjaergaard (midfielder), Fernando, and Ratkov (forwards). New summer signing, Japanese midfielder Kawamura, has also yet to make an appearance due to injury.

Salzburg is still seeking their first Champions League goal of the season. Israeli international Gloukh (5 goals and 2 assists in the league) has been their most impactful player offensively. Ivorian striker Konaté, who was prolific last year, has struggled with form this season, scoring only once in the league so far. Defensively, young Austrian call-up Baidoo (20 years old) and Liverpool-loanee Bajcetic have been regulars.

For Dinamo Zagreb, the squad is also missing key players, including senior defender Mmaee, influential winger Pjaca, and promising striker Stojkovic, as well as long-term absentee defenders Peric and Perkovic. However, midfielders Sucic and Baturina (1 goal and 5 assists in the league), who both scored against Monaco, are expected to start.

Striker Petkovic (3 goals and 2 assists in the league) should also feature after returning from international duty with Croatia. Kulenovic, who has made a strong start to the season with 5 goals in the league, has seen his form dip in recent weeks. In defense, the experienced pair of Theophile-Catherine and Pierre-Gabriel will provide stability.

 

Prediction

Since Salzburg’s coach took over, the team has adopted a more open style of play, reflected in the fact that 16 of their last 18 top-flight home games have seen at least two goals. Similarly, 15 of Dinamo Zagreb’s last 20 away matches have featured two or more goals. Expect a high-scoring contest here.

Prediction: Salzburg 2-2 Dinamo Zagreb