OFI have kept four straight clean sheets, but a serious test awaits: OFI vs Hoffenheim prediction
The opening match of the Europa League league phase between OFI and Hoffenheim will take place on September 17 at Pankritio Stadium. The Cretan club will play in the main phase of the competition for the first time, while the visitors are returning to the Europa League after a one-year absence.
OFI: four straight clean sheets
Christos Kontis' team came through qualifying in emphatic fashion, thrashing CSKA Sofia 5-0 on aggregate. Ahead of the league phase, OFI have hit their stride and won their last three matches, including a 1-0 away victory over Olympiacos.
The hosts' defense has been particularly impressive: the team have not conceded in four consecutive games. In addition, OFI have won all four of their home matches this season and are yet to concede a single goal on home soil.
Hoffenheim: attack consistently scoring twice a game
Christian Ilzer's team have made an uneven start to the season: after a 4-0 win over Erzgebirge Aue, they suffered 3-2 defeats to Köln and Borussia Dortmund. Hoffenheim bounced back in their latest match, beating Stuttgart 2-1.
The German club have scored at least twice in all four of their competitive matches this season. Adam Hlozek scored a brace in the latest round and remains one of the visitors' main attacking threats.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- OFI have won their last three matches and kept clean sheets in four consecutive games.
- The Cretan club have won all four of their home matches this season without conceding a single goal.
- Hoffenheim have scored at least two goals in each of their four competitive matches this season.
The visitors' attack could end the hosts' clean-sheet run: OFI vs Hoffenheim prediction
OFI come into the match in excellent form and, thanks to their reliable defense, can keep the contest close for a long time. However, the level of opposition will now be noticeably higher than in their recent games.
Hoffenheim have been inconsistent in terms of results, but they consistently create and convert chances. With greater individual quality, the German side should have a slight advantage.
