Sparta Praha will be in action against Premier League giants Liverpool in the Europa League Round of 16 clash that is scheduled to take place on March 7.
Brian Priske's team secured their spot in this stage of the tournament with a thrilling 6-4 aggregate victory over Galatasaray. Despite facing a 3-2 defeat in the initial leg, the Czech side turned the tide in the second leg with an impressive 4-1 triumph, showcasing their resilience and determination.
As for Liverpool, after failing to secure a top-four finish in the previous Premier League season, they had the opportunity to reaffirm their football prowess by competing in the Europa League.
The Reds made a strong start to their campaign, recording four wins in the group stage and collecting a total of 12 points. Despite the two defeats, their performance signaled their status as strong contenders in the tournament, potentially positioning them as favorites to vie for the trophy.
For Liverpool, this season's Europa League represents their final chance to clinch a European title under the management of Jurgen Klopp, who is set to depart Anfield at the end of the 2023/24 campaign. However, the Czech opponents' determination to reach new highs in European competitions should not be underestimated.
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Despite Sparta Praha's recent form and their displayed resolve in previous rounds, they face a huge challenge against Liverpool in the upcoming Europa League clash.
As things stand, Liverpool's overall quality, combined with their strong performance in the group stage and their history of success in European competitions, positions them as favorites for this encounter.
Taking into account the injuries plaguing the Reds' squad, there might be some vulnerabilities in their lineup. However, the depth of their squad and the talent at their disposal should still enable them to dominate proceedings.
Considering these factors, the prediction leans towards Liverpool emerging victorious in the first leg of the Europa League Round of 16 clash.
Prediction: Sparta Praha 1 - 3 Liverpool
Sparta Praha vs Liverpool Betting Tips
Tip 1 - Liverpool to win
Given Liverpool's strong performance in the group stage and their overall quality, they are likely to secure a victory against Sparta Praha.
Tip 2 - Both teams to score: Yes
While Liverpool are expected to dominate the game, Sparta Praha have shown the ability to find the back of the net, particularly in their recent matches. Therefore, both teams scoring is an expected outcome.
Tip 3 - Over 2.5 goals
With Liverpool's attacking prowess and Sparta Praha's resilience, the match is expected to feature goals. Considering the potential for an open game, betting on over 2.5 goals could be a worthwhile option.
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Sparta Praha face uncertainty regarding the availability of Andreas Vindheim due to an undisclosed injury. The 28-year-old right-back's status remains unknown, leaving the team with a potential gap to fill in their defensive lineup.
Liverpool, meanwhile, deal with multiple injuries to key players. Joel Matip is sidelined with a knee injury, while Diogo Jota and Trent Alexander-Arnold are nursing knee issues. Alisson Becker is unavailable due to a thigh injury, and Curtis Jones has an ankle/foot problem.
Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez Ribeiro, and Dominik Szoboszlai are facing late fitness tests for thigh injuries, while Thiago Alcantara is ruled out with a thigh issue. Stefan Bajcetic Maquieira is progressing in recovery but won't be available immediately.
Sparta Praha vs Liverpool Head-to-Head
Previously, these two sides have faced each other twice in the Europa League back in 2011. In the first encounter, they played a goalless draw, while Liverpool managed to turn things in the second meeting by celebrating a 1 - 0 win over the opponents.
Total number of games: 2
- 17 Feb 2011: Sparta Praha 0 - 0 Liverpool
- 24 Feb 2011: Liverpool 1 - 0 Sparta Praha
Sparta Praha's form in the last five matches: W W W W L
Liverpool's form in the last five matches: W W W W W
Where to watch Sparta Praha vs Liverpool
- Portugal: Sport TV Multiscreen, Sport TV1
- Brazil: HBO Max
- Spain: Movistar+
- Italy: DAZN
- UK: discovery+ AppTNT Sports 5discovery+
- US: VIX+, Paramount+.