Despite now victory in first five rounds in Champions League, Maribor still has a chance of getting the third position, but only in case they get a victory tonight over Schalke. Slovenians didn’t manage to surprise Sporting away from home suffering 3:1 defeat.
As for the domestic league, they are doing quite well at the moment coming from a 4:1 victory at home against Radomlje. They already had 4:0 lead after sixty minutes, showing complete dominance over much weaker side. They do play well in domestic competitions, but are still only second at the table, having three points less than first placed Domzale. Target is surely to get a victory here, however that’s a bit unrealistic – but, no doubt that the team will try. Maribor could be without right back Petar Stojanovic (4/0) and left back Ales Mejac (3/0) for this game, but the second one is expected to recover in time.
Schalke completely collapsed two weeks ago in the fifth round of Champions League at home against Chelsea, suffering 0:5 defeat. Very little positive things were seen from the German side who had one of the worst performances this season. With a 1-2-2 record so far, Schalke now has to get a victory here in order to keep the chances of progressing alive and hope that Sporing won’t get a victory in London against Chelsea. Coach Roberto Di Matteo still has a long injury list in front of a must win situation. Central defender Joel Matip (7/1), left back Sead Kolasinac (1/0), offensive midfielders Jefferson Farfan (no performance yet), Julian Draxler (11/2) are all already injured for longer period. Offensive midfielders Kevin-Prince Boateng (11/0), Chinedu Obasi (11/1) and Sidney Sam (10/0) and central defender Felipe Santana (3/0) are all suffering from some injuries and their participation will be decided in last moments.
This game now comes as the most important one for Schalke in the season. Disregarding which players will be ready, the Germans have all the chances to walk away with a three pointer as the individual difference between two sides is surely huge.
Bet: Schalke Wins
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