Preview, predictions and lineups for Salzburg vs Dinamo Zagreb

The upcoming UEFA Champions League clash between Red Bull Salzburg and Dinamo Zagreb presents a critical juncture for both clubs, as they seek to secure their first victories in the group stage. As noted by Knapton (2024), Salzburg has faced considerable difficulties this season, experiencing losses in their initial two matches and currently languishing at 34th in the Champions League rankings. Conversely, although Dinamo Zagreb suffered a heavy defeat against Bayern Munich, they managed to salvage a draw against Monaco, indicating potential resilience . This context sets the stage for an intriguing encounter.

Dinamo Zagreb on the other hand have not had a great start either. The Croatian side conceded nine goals in their curtain-raiser against Bayern Munich before playing out a 2-2 draw in their last UCL outing. However, they have enjoyed a good run of form coming into this game having won four and drawn two in their last six outings.

Dinamo Zagreb know a thing or two about embarrassing Champions League defeats after they were beaten 9-2 by Bayern Munich in their opening match. They set the unwanted record of conceding the most goals of any team in a single outing in the competition but responded with a 2-2 draw against Monaco on matchday two. The frustrating part for new boss Nenad Bjelica is that his side surrendered a two-goal lead.

Red Bull Salzburg possible starting lineup: Blaswich; Dedic, Piatkowski, Baidoo, Terzic; Kjaergaard, Gourna-Douath, Bidstrup; Baidoo, Konate, Gloukh

Dinamo Zagreb possible starting lineup: Zagorac; Ristovski, Theophile-Catherine, Torrente, Pierre-Gabriel; Ademi, Misic, Sucic; Baturina; Petkovic, Kulenovic

The 22-year-old Bosnian right-back has already completed eight dribbles in the 2024-25 Champions League - second only to Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers (nine) - while posting a 100% success rate from his take-on attempts.

Arsenal-linked Oscar Gloukh was also brought off the bench for the final half-hour of the win over Rheindorf, replacing ex-Liverpool youngster Bobby Clark, and that change could now occur from the first whistle.

As far as Dinamo Zagreb are concerned, head coach Bjelica serves a one-match touchline ban for his meltdown in the Monaco draw, while right-back Stefan Ristovski will incur a suspension of his own if he is yellow-carded on Wednesday.

In terms of predictions, Ojele (2024) posits that Salzburg may edge out a victory with a narrow scoreline of 2-1. Historically, Salzburg has secured four wins in their last eight meetings against Dinamo; however, it is essential to acknowledge Dinamo's impressive streak of six consecutive matches without defeat. Such statistical nuances could influence the outcome significantly . Ultimately, this match not only serves as an opportunity for redemption but also carries implications for both teams' aspirations within the tournament.

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Sarah H

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