Salzburg is currently in third place in the group “D” standings and continues to demonstrate a less expressive game. However, in the last round, they managed to earn points, breaking a streak of consecutive defeats. The team played a draw with “Real Sociedad” (0:0) and was able to demonstrate a very high-quality defensive game. This is quite interesting because, in the past, the Austrians were not particularly distinguished by the level of this component. Now there is an excellent opportunity to once again bet on it, as the fate of a place in the Europa League playoffs will be decided in the last match. “Salzburg” uses a tactical scheme of 4-4-2, which is characterized by balance. Gerhard Struber’s wards build their attacks through the flanks, especially focusing on involving this component. Therefore, there is an excellent opportunity to act from the position of the first number, possess the ball a lot, and take the initiative.
Benfica is currently in the last position in the group “D” standings, trying to act with maximum dedication but has only earned one point. Frankly speaking, it’s very little, and at the same time, a very large number of mistakes are allowed. The team has the weakest defensive line in the quartet, conceding 10 goals in five matches (an average of exactly two per game). For this reason, it will be very challenging for the players to outperform the opponent and jump into the Euro spring on the final straight. Under Roger Schmidt’s guidance, in the last round, the team couldn’t even beat the reserve lineup of “Inter” (3:3), squandering a three-goal advantage. After such a blow to their pride, it can be very challenging to regain composure and improve the situation. Therefore, the players will have to jump higher than their heads to finally earn valuable points.
