On December 11, the Europa League matchday six will feature an exciting clash between FC Midtjylland and Genk. Both teams are vying for a spot in the competition’s last 16, with only two points separating them as the league phase nears its conclusion. This match promises to be pivotal, given that only three games remain in this round.
Match Preview: FC Midtjylland vs Genk
FC Midtjylland aims to bounce back after experiencing their first defeat in the Europa League, losing 2-1 against Roma. Prior to this setback, they enjoyed a strong start to the tournament, winning their first four matches. Currently, Midtjylland sits in second place in their group, trailing Lyon only on goal difference. Their recent domestic form shows a recovery, having secured two wins and one draw following the loss in Rome.
Home Advantage
The MCH Arena has proven to be a fortress for the Danish side, with an impressive record of 20 matches without a loss there. They have won 16 of those games, instilling confidence among the home fans. Coach Mike Tullberg’s team had a remarkable 10-game unbeaten streak in European competitions before the Roma setback, emphasizing their growing presence in continental football.
Genk’s Challenge
Conversely, Genk enters this match with some challenges. Currently positioned outside of the automatic qualification spots, they still have a chance to reach the knockout stage if they secure a ninth-place finish. Despite experiencing only one loss in their first five Europa League games, they have suffered defensively in domestic play, conceding at least three goals in their last two matches.
- Genk’s previous domestic matches: Conceded three goals, scored once.
- Their away form is commendable, with all three Europa League victories secured on the road.
Key Players and Team News
Midtjylland may face challenges due to injuries to players like Franculino Dju and Martin Erlic, who are doubtful for this matchup. Injuries will also sideline Denil Castillo, Edward Chilufya, Ovie Ejeheri, and Adam Gabriel. Valdemar Byskov is expected to play a crucial role for the hosts, having scored twice in his last three games.
For Genk, the absence of Noah Adedeji-Sternberg and Ken Nkuba is likely, while Junya Ito and Joris Kayembe remain doubts. Teenager Konstantinos Karetsas has been in tantalizing form, contributing to nine goal involvements in his last ten matches, making him a key player in this encounter.
Predicted Lineups
FC Midtjylland:
Olafsson; Sorensen, Han-Beom, Diao; Bak, Byskov, Billing, Osorio; Simsir, Brumado; Cho
Genk:
Van Crombrugger; El Ouahdi, Sadick, Smets, Medina; Hrosovsky, Heynan; Karetsas, Heymans, Sor; Oh
In summary, FC Midtjylland is favored to win with a predicted score of 2-1. Their home record and strong recent performances should put them in a position to extend their unbeaten run to 21 games at MCH Arena, while Genk’s recent struggles may affect their chances.
