Zenit welcome FC Porto to the Petrovsky in tonight’s Champions League matchday 4 encounter. The St Petersburg club gained a huge boost of confidence in the last matchday, where Zenit took all 3 points from the Dragao, albeit against 10 men. Group G is really open now, with only Atletico Madrid looking certain to qualify to the knockout phase. Zenit, Porto and Austria Wien are only separated by 3 points and a win for Zenit here would see them move 4 points ahead of Porto in 2nd. Zenit have been boosted by having previously suspended Axel Witsel’s ban cut short, so he will return to action in this one.
Zenit’s domestic form has dropped slightly of late as they have only won 1 of the last 3, including a spectacular and shocking 2-0 defeat to lower league Tyumen in the Russian Cup. Zenit fans will still be happy with their sides aim to regain the title though, as they currently sit top of the RPL, 3 points clear of 2nd place Lokomotiv after 15 rounds.
Porto, like Zenit, currently sit top of their domestic league, and they are also 3 points clear of nearest rivals Sporting Lisbon after 9 games. The Portista’s also only managed a 1-1 draw at the weekend against a team they were expected to beat, so their current form is very similar to Zenit’s.
This is a real crucial encounter, as a victory for either side would be a massive step to gaining qualification. Russia’s hopes for Champions League success rest on Zenit now, after CSKA were eliminated after a crushing 5-2 defeat in Manchester last night. Zenit have only previously reached the round of 16, and the aim this year will be to go one step further.
Team News
The hosts will be delighted to have Belgian playmaker Witsel available for selection again this evening, as his suspension has been lifted by UEFA. Spalletti does not have many problems in terms of injuries, as only fringe players remain absent. Zenit’s strength in depth is something which will stand them in good stead domestically and on the continent after Christmas (should they get through), as they have experienced international’s such as Tymoshchuk and Kerzakhov frequently sitting on the bench.
The visitors have called up young Nigerian midfielder Mikel and Mexican Diego Reyes to the squad, in place of Carlos Eduardo and the suspended Herrera who was sent off v Zenit in the last round. Coach Fonseca will also be without Russian Izmaylov, Quintero and Fucile. Jackson Martinez is expected to start up front, flanked by Lica and Varela.
Will Danny be influential this evening?
Tactics
As you can see from the diagram, I have selected an 11 which Spalletti could pick, but obviously nothing is certain prior to an hour before kick off.
Spalletti has plenty of options all over the field, and the fullbacks could change with Smolnikov and Anyukov fighting for a start with Ansaldi and Criscito, with the latter pair being more attacking than the others.
I expect Zenit to start Witsel, despite him being absent in the previous win at Porto, as his quality and experience of European competition could be vital in a game like this. Shatov has caught the eye this season, with some great performances in all competitions so I expect him to start. Shirokov on his day is a class act with great vision, so I am sure he will regain his spot.
The front 3 could also be tweaked, as there are many good options for Spalletti to pick from. I expect Faizulin to start in some capacity as he adds great dynamism to the Zenit team. Danny and Hulk are nailed on starters bar any late fitness issues, as they are the focal point of the Zenit attack.
Kerzhakov will feel as though he deserves a recall to the starting 11, as he got the winner at the Dragao last time out.
Danger Men
Hulk (Zenit)- The former Porto man has promised to put his old club to the sword tonight, as he and Zenit strive for a place in the knockout stages. Porto will be all too aware of their former icon’s talents, and he will be keen to get on the score sheet this evening. He has a ferocious left foot and great strength and dribbling ability.
Lica (Porto)- The winger who signed from Estoril in the summer has made a great impact since his arrival in Porto. Lica possesses good pace and is versatile enough to play on either wing. He has an eye for goal and loves to interchange positions with Martinez and Varela. Zenit will need to be wary of him tonight.
Hulk promises to perform tonight.
Prediction
I expect a real open encounter in St Petersburg tonight, with both teams desperate for a win. Spalletti will hope that Zenit can control the game from the off, and preferably take an early lead. Zenit need to have an equilibrium between attacking and defending, as Porto can be lethal on the counter with the pace of the front 3. Zenit may just edge this but they will have to play superbly.
Prediction: Zenit 2-1 Porto
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