Freiburg vs RC Lens
UEFA Europa League
Round of 32
Thursday
22nd February 2024
Europa-Park Stadion
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the UEFA Europa League fixture between Freiburg and RC Lens.
Freiburg vs RC Lens: Preview
Freiburg form analysis
Freiburg’s Europa League form highlights an exciting attacking team capable of goalscoring bursts, but one prone to occasional defensive lapses. After recovering from conceding first to beat TSC 3-1 away, Freiburg hit top gear offensively by thrashing them 5-0 at home as Eggestein and Doan scored. Their attack dazzled again in a 5-0 demolition of Olympiakos in their next European match, with Gregoritsch netting a hat-trick in the first half.
However, a 2-0 defeat away at West Ham exposed defensive frailties, leaking two first half goals from open play. Freiburg were unable to recover their offensive spark in a 0-0 away draw with Lens in their Round of 32 first leg. Overall, while Freiburg have shown they can overwhelm teams through rambunctious attacking waves, shoring up vulnerabilities at the back will be key to sustained Europa League advancement. Finding greater defensive discipline and control to balance their dangermen like Gregoritsch must be the priority for manager Streich. If so, Freiburg have both the quality and mentality to make their mark in the knockouts.
RC Lens form analysis
Lens’ European campaign represents a spirited team capable of competing with elite clubs but prone to heavy defeats when overmatched. After holding PSV to a creditable 1-1 home draw, Lens narrowly lost the away return 1-0. However, they were simply outclassed in a 6-0 thrashing away at Premier League leaders Arsenal, ripped apart before the break. Showing determination, Lens responded by beating Sevilla 2-1 at home to secure shock qualification for the Europa League knockouts. However, manager Franck Haise will know tougher tests lie ahead after a 0-0 home draw with Freiburg in their round of 32 first leg.
Overall, Lens have shown fighting spirit to achieve European progress but must eliminate erratic defensive displays that leave them vulnerable against high-quality attacks. Adding discipline, resilience and game management is vital for Lens to consolidate their Europa League adventure. Blending those traits with their guts and counter attacking threat can make them dangerous knockout opposition.
