VfB Stuttgart — Viking FK

VfB Stuttgart enters this Champions League fixture with mixed form, showing three wins and two losses in their last five matches, including a convincing 4-1 victory over 1. FC Köln in their recent Bundesliga outing. The team boasts a strong offensive record, averaging 2.40 goals per match with an xG of 2.13 per match, indicating consistent attacking threat. Their ball possession averages 58%, highlighting a preference for controlling the game. However, they have conceded 1.60 goals per match and kept only 1 clean sheet in their last five games, suggesting defensive vulnerabilities. Several key players are missing due to injury or suspension, which could impact team cohesion.

Viking FK comes into this Champions League match in better recent form, with three wins and two draws in their last five outings, including a 3-1 win over Dinamo Zagreb in their previous Champions League fixture. The team averages 2.20 goals per match with an xG of 2.16 per match, demonstrating an efficient attack despite lower possession. Their average possession stands at 42%, indicating a counter-attacking or direct style of play. Defensively, they concede 1.20 goals per match, a slightly better record than their opponents, but have failed to keep any clean sheets in their last five matches and have seen both teams score in 100% of their recent games. They also face multiple injury concerns, which could stretch their squad depth.