RB Leipzig will face Sporting Lisbon in a crucial Champions League clash with both teams in need of a win, though their campaigns have taken contrasting paths. For Leipzig, their European season has been a disaster, as they’ve been eliminated after suffering six defeats from six matches. In contrast, Sporting Lisbon, despite a shaky start, has improved under Rui Borges and is in a strong position to qualify for the next stage.
RB Leipzig's Struggles Continue
RB Leipzig’s form in the Champions League has been nothing short of disastrous. They sit bottom of the group, yet to earn a single point, and have already been eliminated from European competition. To make matters worse, Leipzig recently squandered a 3-0 lead in the Bundesliga against bottom club Bochum, dropping out of the top four. Their defensive fragility has been a major concern, but with star strikers Benjamin Sesko and Lois Openda returning from suspension, Leipzig will aim to salvage some pride.
Key Injuries and Suspensions:
- Xaver Schlager, Castello Lukeba, and Andre Silva remain sidelined until February.
- Benjamin Henrichs has been ruled out for the rest of the season.
- Yussuf Poulsen is expected to be on the bench following his recent injury return.
Sporting Lisbon on the Rebound
Sporting Lisbon has experienced a rocky patch since Ruben Amorim’s departure, but under new manager Rui Borges, they have shown promise. Despite a recent setback in the Taca da Liga final against Benfica, Sporting has managed to keep their league form strong, sitting top of the Primeira Liga after a 3-0 win against Rio Ave. With only one point likely needed to secure a Champions League playoff spot, Sporting will look to bounce back in Europe and ensure they stay in contention.
Key Absences:
- Pedro Goncalves is a major doubt for this fixture.
- Eduardo Quaresma, Nuno Santos, and Matheus Reis are also likely to miss out.
- Viktor Gyokeres is in fine form and should start after scoring a crucial goal in their recent win.
Head-to-Head and Prediction
RB Leipzig’s record against Portuguese teams has been decent, with only one loss in their last four encounters. However, Sporting Lisbon’s recent performances in Germany, including a dominant 3-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt, have given them confidence.
Prediction: RB Leipzig 2-3 Sporting Lisbon
While Leipzig has struggled on the continental stage this season, Sporting Lisbon's recent resurgence under Borges gives them the upper hand in this match. Expect an entertaining encounter, with Sporting edging out Leipzig in a high-scoring affair.
