VfB Stuttgart vs Viking

Stuttgart should undoubtedly be regarded as the favourites on Wednesday, particularly with home advantage and a significant gap in European experience between the two sides. Viking have made an encouraging impression, but this represents a major step up in quality and intensity. The German side possess considerably more attacking talent and should be confident of taking control of the contest.

That said, Viking have shown enough going forward to suggest they can cause Stuttgart problems. The Norwegians have scored in seven consecutive matches, with both teams finding the net in each of those fixtures, highlighting their consistency in the final third. Stuttgart's defence has also been far from convincing, keeping just one clean sheet across their last nine matches, so the visitors should have opportunities to get on the scoresheet.

However, containing Stuttgart's forward line for 90 minutes looks like a much tougher challenge. The hosts have the quality to exploit the spaces Viking are likely to leave behind, and their superior attacking options should gradually begin to tell. Viking may be able to stay competitive for long periods, but Stuttgart's depth and individual quality should allow them to pull clear as the game progresses.

Viking look more than capable of finding a consolation goal, potentially even striking early while Stuttgart's defence is still finding its feet. Ultimately, though, the Germans have far too much firepower at home and should take control late on to secure a convincing victory.