predictions-and-tips
CSKA Moscow v Manchester United Predictions, Betting Tips and Previews
September 26, 2017
Khimki Arena – Champions League
Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United travel to Russia, seeking to build on their comfortable 3-0 win over Basel in week one of the Champions League.
Past Meetings
Manchester United have a very good recent record over CSKA, with the Red Devils victorious in all four of their meetings. United won 1-0 at home and drew 1-1 away in the 2015-16 Champions League, and drew 3-3 at home and won 1-0 away in the 2009-10 competition.
Team News
Mourinho’s main concern will be the absence of midfielder Marouane Fellaini, with the midfielder ruled out following an ankle injury sustained in the weekend win over Southampton. The Belgium international will be a miss for United as he was likely to start against a physical Russian side.
Paul Pogba is still out with a hamstring injury, and is not expected to be back in action until October.
CSKA will be looking to Brazilian forward Vitinho to provide their main goal scoring threat, with creative midfielder Alan Dzagoev likely to provide the support from a No. 10 role.
CSKA Moscow v Manchester United Preview and Predictions
This is likely to be United’s toughest away assignment, with trips to Basel and Benfica still to come this season, and Mourinho will prepare accordingly. The attacking power since in recent weeks from United could be replaced with a more pragmatic approach against an experienced CSKA side.
Goal scoring chances may be at premium in this game, and an under 2.5 goals bet looks likely here- priced at 8/11. United are the better of the two sides, but Mourinho may settle for a draw in Moscow- which is priced at 14/5.
Recommended Bets
A 1-1 draw at 6/1
United have flexed their muscles in attack this season, scoring in their last games in all competitions. The combination of Romelu Lukaku, Marcus Rashford and Juan Mata have been in excellent form, propelling United up to second in the Premier League table. However Mourinho will be seeking anything but a defeat out in Moscow, and United will set up for that.
Romelu Lukaku to score anytime at 21/20
Belgian international Lukaku has been the main man in attack for United, following his summer switch from Everton to Mourinho’s side. With eight goals in as many games in all competitions, he will be United’s best hope for securing a valuable result on Wednesday.