2.2.2018.

PICK OF THE DAY

Vitese - Groningen

Tip : 1

Odd : 1.60

FT : 2:0 WIN!!!

Vitesse continued their fine domestic campaign with a 2-1 win at high flying Zwolle, which moved them back into the top six at the expense of Utrecht. That win saw Vitesse extend their unbeaten run in the Eredivisie to three games, and with Groningen providing the opposition on Friday, the hosts will be confident of seeing that good run continue. The visitors sit thirteen in the table, six points above the relegation zone, and while there is still work to be done, Groningen look to have more than enough to keep themselves in the top flight of Dutch football.

Back in November Groningen played host to Vitesse in what turned out to be a six-goal thriller. Amazingly, only one goal was scored during the first half and it was an own goal by Larsen that put the visitors Vitesse in front at the break. Shortly before the hour mark Dabo returned the favour by putting through his own net to bring Groningen level, but just three minutes later Vitesse were back in front when Matavž converted a penalty. That lead didn’t last very long though and the scoreline was once again equal when Idrissi made it 2-2, and in the seventy-eighth minute teammate and top scorer Mahi put the hosts in front for the first time in the match. The next goal was going to decide if this game would end all square or prove Groningen to be the winners, and it was the latter that prevailed as van Weert wrapped up the three points, with the home sides fourth goal of the afternoon.

Both sides have made themselves very hard to beat in recent weeks, with each losing just one of their last six competitive matches. However, with two wins, three draws, one defeat it’s Vitesse who head into the game as the form favourites. Groningen have drawn four of their last six and only won once, so the most likely positive result for the visitors looks to be a draw. Vitesse have won three of their last five against Groningen and edge the head to head record, but the visitors have tasted victory against their hosts already this season and that will give them confidence.

Matavž is still waiting to move into double figures for the season, having been stuck on nine goals for three league games now. Mahi moved onto seven Eredivisie goals for the campaign at the weekend, but was subbed off injured and may not be fit in time for Friday nights game.

With that in mind, we’re predicting a win for the home side as their confidence appears to be very high at the moment and they will be keen to avenge the 4-2 defeat suffered against Groningen in the latter part of 2017. We’re backing a final score of 3-1 as the visitors have a poor defensive record this season and both teams have been strong going forward.