Home strength against dangerous visitors: RB Leipzig vs PSV prediction
The second-round clash of the Champions League league phase between RB Leipzig and PSV will take place on Tuesday at “Red Bull Arena”. In the opening round, the German club suffered a heavy 1-4 defeat to Como, while PSV drew with Shakhtar and picked up one point.
RB Leipzig: the team transforms at home
Martin Demichelis’ side has endured an inconsistent season so far, but after the international break it produced one of its best performances of the autumn, crushing Eintracht 6-0. The victory was their second in the last three matches and should provide a confidence boost after a painful start to their Champions League campaign.
Leipzig’s main argument is its home form. In three matches in front of their own fans, the team defeated Borussia Mönchengladbach, Hamburg and Eintracht by an aggregate score of 14-0. Rocco Reitz and Brajan Gruda have also returned to the squad, slightly improving the situation in midfield.
PSV: good form, but too many injuries
Peter Bosz’s team also returned from the break in winning fashion, beating Heerenveen 2-0. PSV have suffered just two defeats in ten official matches this season, while their last eight games have produced six victories.
The visitors’ main problem is an overcrowded treatment room. Kiliann Sildillia, Jerdy Schouten and Alassane Pléa are sidelined for an extended period, while several other players are only just getting back to full fitness. At the same time, PSV have traditionally performed confidently away from home in the Champions League and, before their January defeat to Newcastle, had gone four consecutive away matches unbeaten.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Leipzig have won all three of their home matches this season by an aggregate score of 14-0.
- More than three goals were scored in five of Leipzig’s last seven matches.
- PSV have lost just one of their last five away matches in the Champions League.
Defensive errors could lead to a shootout: RB Leipzig vs PSV prediction
Leipzig are deservedly considered the favourites thanks to their formidable home form, but their overall performances remain too inconsistent. The 1-4 defeat to Como showed that the team still does not always cope with the intensity of European competition.
PSV can exploit these problems, especially given their confident away performances and attacking style. Both sides will be looking for a win after imperfect opening-round results, so the most logical outcome appears to be a high-scoring match without a clear winner.
