In their final match of the revamped UEFA Europa League group stage, Romanian side FC Steaua București will host English giants Manchester United at the 55,000-seat Arena Națională on Thursday, January 30, 2025. Africa Football editor Allan Damba looks into upcoming European night.
Match Overview
Both teams are vying for an automatic Round of 16 spot to avoid the two-legged playoff. Steaua București currently sit eighth in the table with 14 points from seven games, while Manchester United occupy fourth place with 15 points.
In their most recent UEFA Europa League outings, Steaua București edged Qarabag FK 3-2, with David Miculescu and Adrian Gheorghe Sut delivering the goals. Meanwhile, Manchester United secured a late 2-1 win against Rangers FC, courtesy of a Jack Butland own goal and a decisive strike from Bruno Fernandes.
Steaua București Recent Form Analysis
Steaua București have lost just one of their last five matches across all competitions, winning three and drawing one. They have scored eight goals and conceded six during this period. Over the weekend, they claimed a narrow 1-0 victory against UTA Arad in the Romanian league.
Last Five Games: 3 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss
Latest Result: UTA Arad 0-1 Steaua București
Manchester United Recent Form Analysis
In their last five fixtures, Manchester United have recorded three wins, one draw, and one loss, scoring eight goals and conceding six. Over the weekend, they defeated Fulham 1-0, with Lisandro Martinez scoring the decisive goal.
Last Five Games: 3 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss
Latest Result: Fulham 0-1 Manchester United
Head to Head
This match marks the first competitive encounter between Steaua București and Manchester United, providing both teams with an opportunity to make history in this high-stakes clash.
Our Prediction for Steaua București vs Manchester United
With both teams displaying similar form in recent weeks and only one point separating them in the table, this match promises to be a closely contested affair. However, Manchester United’s superior squad quality and experience may give them the edge.
Prediction: Manchester United to win
Betting Tips:
Away Win: Odds of 1.65 on 1xbet
Both Teams to Score (YES): Odds of 1.76 on 1xbet
Player to Watch
Joyskim Dawa: The Cameroonian defender has been a standout performer for Steaua București, making 33 appearances this season and contributing three goals. His defensive prowess will be crucial in keeping Manchester United’s star-studded attack at bay.
Best Odds and Betting Tips
For this match, the following betting options offer great value:
Away Win: Odds of 1.65 on 1xbet
Both Teams to Score (YES): Odds of 1.76 on 1xbet
