Reversing our fixtures from the last time out, the UEFA Champions League returns to action with an immediate set of rematches from the third matchday. This, of course, should be welcome news for Group D leaders, FC Porto. Taking home a 3-1 victory from their cross-continent journey to Russia, the defending Portuguese Champions will now look to lock themselves into the Champions League knockout rounds as they welcome the last placed side in Group D, Lokomotiv Moscow.
First Hosts Worst as Porto Welcome Lokomotiv Moscow
Porto Look Ahead to Champions League Knockout Phase
Currently sitting atop Group D, FC Porto find themselves in a great position as we head into the second half of group stage play. Recording two victories and a draw up to this point, Porto have set themselves up nicely. Almost certain to progress into the knockout rounds based off their opening three matches of the competition, the Portuguese club will look to use this match to sew up their spot in the next round.
Should Porto earn a victory over Lokomotiv in this match, the Portuguese side could potentially give themselves a six-point lead over the third-placed side in the table. Considering the fact that only two matches will remain at that point, it is extremely likely that Porto will easily cruise their way into the knockout rounds.
However, to do just that, Porto must make sure they still focus on the task at hand. Facing off against a Lokomotiv side that has zero points in three Champions League matches, Porto should have their easiest match of the campaign on Tuesday. However, turning too much focus onto the following rounds of the competition could cost Porto big time. After all, a loss here will bring Porto right back into a position where they are forced to fight for their Champions League lives over the final two matches of the group stage.
Lokomotiv Seeking Pride Over Final Three Matches
A competition to forget thus far, Lokomotiv Moscow have failed to meet any of the expectations set for the club at the beginning of the group stage. Seeded as one of the top eight sides in the competition this year, the defending Russian champions have so far been run completely ragged in what is arguably the weakest group of the Champions League group stage.
Outscored seven goals to one thus far, Lokomotiv also sit with zero points from three matches. These results come despite the fact that Lokomotiv have hosted two matches so far in the competition. Making matters potentially worse now is the fact that Lokomotiv must now head across the continent to Portugal where they will take on a team that defeated them 3-1 after making a similar cross-continental trip just two weeks ago.
Determined to at least record some sort of result, this match does give Lokomotiv their best shot at making a true statement of their character and strength. Recording a result against the top side in Group D, Lokomotiv will not only remind the club’s in Group D that it is a side to be reckoned with, but a win here over Porto would also keep the Russian side’s slim hopes of qualifying for the knockout rounds alive for at least one more match.
Key Players
Porto Looking for Another Strong Display From Jesús Corona
Recording a goal and an assist in Porto’s last Champions League match against Lokomotiv, Jesús Corona will look to continue his strong form from the midfield in this match. Playing across multiple positions this season, Corona has spent the majority of time along the right flank this season and should continue to see time going forward as this match progresses.
While not Porto’s best playmaker, there is no doubting Corona’s form from the last Champions League contest. Giving him some confidence against both Lokomotiv as well as in this competition, Corona should turn in a good performance in this match. Should he do just that, there is not a single doubt in anyone’s mind that Porto will manage to once again take all three points in this Champions League rematch.
Aleksei Miranchuk Needs to Lead Lokomotiv Attack
A youth product from the Lokomotiv academy, Aleksei Miranchuk is a player that should bring with him energy and a will to win in this match. Recording the only goal so far for Lokomotiv in the Champions League, the 23-year old Russian international will be looked at to help lead the Russian side’s attack during this match.
While Lokomotiv will likely not be focused on playing attacking football here, if Aleksei Miranchuk manages to help get the Russians on the board early in this match, it could allow Lokomotiv to completely sit back and defend against Porto. Getting an early goal like this could be key in this match as Lokomotiv has already proved that they are likely no match for Porto in a straight up slugfest.
Prediction
Earning a 3-1 victory just two weeks ago against this very same Lokomotiv Moscow side, FC Porto enter this match as the clear favourites. Possessing a more talented side that currently finds themselves in a good run of form, look for Porto to put on a show for their home supporters as they waltz to victory over Lokomotiv.
Prediction: FC Porto 4-1 Lokomotiv Moscow
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