As FCSB and Feyenoord prepare for their crucial matchup in the Europa League, both teams are in search of much-needed points. The game will take place on Thursday at the National Arena in Bucharest. Currently, both clubs are in the lower ranks of their respective groups, sitting at 30th and 31st in the overall standings after five matchdays. Securing three points is vital for both teams as they aim for playoff positions.
Match Preview
Both teams approach Thursday’s contest in poor form. FCSB started their Europa League campaign with a win against Go Ahead Eagles but has since faced four straight defeats. Their losses include matches against Young Boys, Bologna, Basel, and Crvena Zvezda, leaving them with only three points in the standings.
Overall, FCSB’s performance has been disappointing, with just one win in their last seven matches across all competitions. The club drew three times and suffered three losses since their last victory over Cluj on November 1. Recently, they have struggled to score in their last two matches.
Feyenoord’s Recent Form
Feyenoord, under the management of Robin van Persie, has also encountered difficulties. A previous defeat to PSV Eindhoven seemed to diminish their confidence. Following that, the team lost four out of five matches, including Europa League setbacks against Stuttgart and Celtic.
However, Feyenoord has shown improvement recently, claiming victories against Telstar and PEC Zwolle, with the latter match notably ending in a dominant 6-1 win. This marked Feyenoord’s first home victory in over a month, featuring a standout performance from Ayase Ueda, who scored four goals.
Team Updates
- FCSB: Darius Olaru is suspended, while Joyskim Dawa and Mihai Popescu are injured. Florin Tanase is set to lead the attack.
- Feyenoord: Ueda aims to bolster his scoring record in Europe but has yet to find the net frequently. Jakub Moder and other key players are being assessed for fitness.
Predictions and Lineups
Based on recent performances, it is anticipated that Feyenoord will have the edge in this encounter. Despite some struggles, their improved form gives them an advantage.
Possible Starting Lineups
| FCSB | Feyenoord |
|---|---|
| Zima; Cretu, Ngezana, Graovac, Radunovic; Lixandru, Sut; Miculescu, O. Popescu, Thiam; Tanase | Wellenreuther; Lotomba, Ahmedhodzic, Watanabe, Smal; Valente, Targhaline, Timber; Moussa, Ueda, Sauer |
In conclusion, while both teams are struggling, Feyenoord’s recent form and player performance suggest they could edge out FCSB in what promises to be a competitive match. The stakes are high as both clubs aim to turn their fortunes around in the Europa League.
