The UEFA Champions League returns this week as the 2024/25 season approaches its crucial Matchday 6. On Tuesday, the competition intensifies with an intriguing fixture between RB Leipzig and Aston Villa at the Red Bull Arena, alongside several other key encounters that promise to heighten the drama.
RB Leipzig have endured a tumultuous journey in this year's Champions League, grappling with formidable opponents such as Atletico Madrid, Juventus, and Liverpool. While they have displayed commendable resilience in the Bundesliga, where they remain competitive, their European campaign has faced significant hurdles following a shaky start. According to UEFA's official statistics, the German side has struggled under pressure, placing them in a precarious position as they prepare for this decisive match (UEFA.com).
In stark contrast, Aston Villa has made a noteworthy impact in the Champions League this season. Although their domestic form has been somewhat erratic, the Villans remain in contention for a top-four finish in the Premier League. With only one defeat in their Champions League group thus far, Villa are well-placed to advance to the knockout stages. This fixture also marks the first competitive meeting between these two clubs, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the encounter, as noted by The Hard Tackle.
Turning to team news, Leipzig's manager Marco Rose is grappling with a slew of injuries that could significantly affect his tactical approach. Seven key players are sidelined, including Castello Lukeba, who is nursing a hamstring injury, and David Raum, currently recovering from an ankle issue. The absence of Elif Elmas, Assan Ouedraogo, El Chadaille Bitshiabu, Xavi Simons, and Yussuf Poulsen further complicates Leipzig's preparations (The Hard Tackle).
Despite these challenges, Peter Gulacsi is expected to don the goalkeeper’s gloves for Leipzig, who are likely to adopt a 4-4-2 formation. The defence may comprise Lutsharel Geertruida, Nicolas Seiwald, Willi Orban, and Benjamin Henrichs, while Amadou Haidara and Arthur Vermeeren are anticipated to anchor the midfield. The attacking duo of Benjamin Sesko and Lois Openda will be pivotal for Leipzig’s offensive strategy.
On the opposing side, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is also facing his own set of challenges as he gears up for this pivotal match. Leon Bailey has recently been added to the injury list alongside Jacob Ramsey after sustaining a thigh injury against Southampton. Emiliano Martinez is expected to lead Villa’s defensive efforts in goal, with the team likely to utilise a 4-2-3-1 formation. This would see Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Lucas Digne lining up in defence, while Boubacar Kamara could partner Youri Tielemans in midfield. The creativity in the attacking third may come from Morgan Rogers in the number 10 role, supported by Jaden Philogene and John McGinn on the flanks, with Ollie Watkins spearheading the frontline.
A player to watch in this contest is Benjamin Sesko, who has been instrumental thus far, netting three of Leipzig's four goals in the Champions League campaign — an impressive contribution that accounts for 75% of his team’s total goals in the competition. His performance will be crucial if Leipzig are to reverse their fortunes against a steadily improving Aston Villa side.
Given the ongoing struggles faced by Leipzig and Villa's upward momentum, the outlook seems to favour the visitors. The Hard Tackle projects a 2-1 victory for Aston Villa as they aim to exploit Leipzig's difficulties and secure a vital win in the Champions League.