Stuttgart vs Sparta Prague Prediction: 1/10/2024

Stuttgart put up an impressive display against Real Madrid in their first match of the group stage at the Bernabéu, despite ultimately losing 3-1. The Swabians were dominant, pressing and creating chances throughout the game, but were punished early in the second half by goals from Rodrygo and Mbappé.

Facing an opponent of Real Madrid’s caliber, even the smallest mistakes can be costly. However, in the Bundesliga, Stuttgart bounced back in style with a 5-1 home victory over Borussia Dortmund, securing their second consecutive win after a 3-1 away victory against Borussia Mönchengladbach. Last weekend, Stuttgart traveled to face Wolfsburg.

In contrast, Sparta Prague had a perfect start to their Champions League campaign, comfortably beating Red Bull Salzburg 3-0 at home. Sparta Prague has been in superb form this season, remaining unbeaten in all competitions since July 19, with 13 wins and 2 draws in 15 matches.

The Czech side advanced through the preliminary rounds to secure their spot in the group stage. Neck and neck with Slavia Prague at the top of their domestic league, Sparta aimed to stay competitive, with a match against Sigma Olomouc looming last weekend.

Stuttgart will be missing a few key players, including Ameen Al Dakhil, who arrived injured from Burnley this summer. Also absent are the injured defender Nartey, unimportant Diehl, and Swiss international Stergiou. However, Bosnian international Demirovic, who has scored 4 goals in 4 Bundesliga matches, may start this time. Other notable players include French midfielder Millot (2 goals, 2 assists), Rouault, Zagadou (formerly of Borussia Dortmund), and Undav (who has 3 goals this season and scored 18 goals last season in the Bundesliga).

Sparta Prague will also be without a few key figures, including summer signing Cobbaut from Parma, Imanol Garcia from Bilbao, and defender Sorensen. However, several offensive players are available, such as Serbian international Birmancevic and Slovak international Haraslin, both with 3 goals each in the league, along with Vitik. Players like Krasniqi, Tuci, and Olatunji (who scored against Salzburg in their first group match) will likely be part of the squad as well.

 

Prediction

Stuttgart’s home games rarely end goalless, and their last match against Sparta Prague featured eight goals. Sparta Prague’s recent Champions League matches have consistently had over 2.5 goals, making a high-scoring encounter likely.

Prediction: Stuttgart 1 : 2 Sparta Prague