Sparta Prague vs Liverpool
UEFA Europa League
Round of 16
Thursday
7th March 2024
epet ARENA
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the UEFA Europa League fixture between Sparta Prague and Liverpool.
Sparta Prague vs Liverpool: Preview
Sparta Prague form analysis
Prague’s Europa League form paints the picture of an entertaining, attack-minded side capable of scoring goals but prone to defensive issues. On November 10th away to Rangers, they fought back from 2-0 down before ultimately losing 2-1 – showing spirit but fragility at the back. Sparta tightened up defensively at home to Real Betis on November 30th however, grinding out an impressive 1-0 win thanks to a Haraslin goal to keep knockout qualification hopes alive. Their attacking quality was on full display during a dazzling 3-1 win away at Aris Limassol on December 15th, Birmančević netting twice in an emphatic victory.
However, defensive issues persisted away to Turkish giants Galatasaray on February 15th as they twice led but ultimately fell 3-2 in a thriller. But Sparta showed powers of recovery by demolishing Galatasaray 4-1 at home just last week, Preciado and Haraslin starring in attack to secure a round of 16 progression. Overall Sparta’s form suggests that while they carry lots of attacking threats, they remain prone to losing concentration at the back – reflected by conceding 15 goals in just 8 European games this campaign. Addressing these defensive weaknesses will be vital to trouble formidable last 16 opponents Liverpool.
Liverpool form analysis
Liverpool’s Europa League form paints the picture of an attacking powerhouse prone to switching off defensively. They started strongly by beating Union Saint-Gilloise 2-0 at home on October 6th courtesy of goals from Gravenberch and Jota. Liverpool carried this form by thumping French side Toulouse 5-1 away from home on October 27th despite briefly falling behind – Jota, Nunez and Salah starring.
However, defensive issues crept back during a chaotic 3-2 loss away to Toulouse on November 9th, twice letting leads slip despite Jota’s late effort. Liverpool appeared back to their clinical best by destroying LASK 4-0 at home on December 1st, with big names Salah, Diaz and new signing Gakpo on target. But concentration problems persisted as qualification went down to the final game, Union Saint-Gilloise snatching a 2-1 win on December 14th despite Quansah levelling. Overall Liverpool’s form shows they carry lots of attacking threats, especially from Salah and Nunez, but failings at the back leave them vulnerable – reflected by conceding 8 goals in 6 group games. Addressing these defensive weaknesses will be vital in a tricky playoff against the Czech club next.
